Introduction

For many patients, online access to their GP’s services is a normal part of their everyday interaction with the NHS.  The majority of patients in England use at least one GP Online Service to request prescriptions, book appointments or access their electronic health record.  It is part of modern, responsive primary care services for patients, their families and carers.  It is convenient and reliable for patients and useful for practices.  It can foster a person-centred approach to care, especially for patients with long term conditions or complex multi-morbidity. 

The Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP), in collaboration with NHS England, have developed the guidance and resources in this Toolkit to help practices provide GP online services effectively, efficiently, safely and securely.  The Toolkit includes clinical exemplars which demonstrate how GP online services can empower patients to take greater control of the management of their health conditions.  It does not cover online consultations.