Top Tips for Using eConsult Prepared for you by the Painswick Patient Group

eConsult is the online triage system the local NHS recommends.

  • Expect to take 15 or 20 minutes, this is your health and it needs careful attention.
  • Sit a moment and think things through, what is really your concern? If in pain, quite where is it? How long have you had the problem? Etc. If you use eConsult you are likely to get quicker access to the doctor, 2 days normally.
  • To login you will be asked if you already have an NHS password:
    • If no, you can choose to register with the NHS or go ahead on and select ‘continue without logging in’.
    • If yes, a new one specific to this service is required and you will be sent this within seconds. With this you can then login and it will make the whole process easier the next time. If you choose to register you will need to have ready something with your photograph on, passport, driving licence etc. to attach to your online registration. If you do not know how to send photographs, then don’t struggle to login, just go ahead as a guest.
  • Answer the first set of questions very briefly, this will take you to another set more focused towards your needs. Now give details in the second section.
  • Don’t mix two connected symptoms, e.g. a rash and a sore throat, as eConsult will ask the same set of questions twice. Decide which is your main complaint e.g. the rash, and only then give details of the secondary complaint.
  • Take care to accurately assess your pain levels, 6 and above may mean your eConsult input is automatically rejected and you are directed to A&E.
  • Don’t get upset, if you are unable to answer the eConsult questions, phone the surgery on 01452 812545 and they will help you complete the form.
  • Take your time, it would take longer to go to the surgery and wait for attention!
  • Be nice! Swear at the dog not the receptionist.
  • Please note that in the event of the surgery needing to call you back to discuss the matter further or to arrange an appointment, all calls to, as well as from, our patients are recorded for training and monitoring purposes