In co-operation with EMIS, our computer supplier, we are testing a new service that gives patients internet access to the practice. This allows you to book, cancel or check your appointments; request repeat prescriptions; and advise us of address changes; all on the Web. This facility, similar to online banking, is a first in the UK. We hope it will be more convenient for you, and also give our reception staff more time to deal with other enquiries. We plan to add other features as and when they become available.

How It Works

At busy times it can be difficult to contact the practice by telephone, and after hours there is no one to answer the phone for routine enquiries. Using the internet, you will be able to view a range of available appointments and take your time to choose the best one for you. Only routine doctor appointments are available in this way – you will need to ring the surgery to book all other appointments e.g. ante-natal; post-natal; and specialist clinics, such as diabetes.

For repeat prescriptions, you will be able to view and select those drugs that you require. You will only be able to see those drugs that your doctor has classed as suitable for repeat prescribing. For all other drugs you will need to contact the surgery in the normal way.

Getting Started

You must register to use the internet appointment booking facility. Bring some form of identification into the surgery (your passport or new style driving licence would be ideal), and ask the receptionist for a registration form. You can then access the web site and enter the registration details shown on the form.

After registering, you log on with your patient number and a password. You will then be able to view appointments you have already made, cancel them if necessary, and book an appointment with your doctor after checking the times available.

Security

We take the security of our patients’ information very seriously. By working with EMIS, the company that provides the computer systems for this practice (and for more than 50% of all doctors in the UK), we can ensure that the information you provide when using the internet facility is protected.

All communications with the practice web site are encrypted, using the same high security that major banks use for their internet transactions (128 bit SSL). Only you can see the personal information you enter.

The web site is administered at a remote high-security site managed by EMIS, not at the practice, so there is no possibility of unauthorised access. Using the most up-to-date version of your web browser also improves security of information.

Remember to close the browser after use, especially if someone else could access your computer.

How To Get Involved

§ Ask the receptionist for a registration form, which provides the information you need to register to use the internet facility.

§ Access the practice web site at www.altonstreet.nhs.uk and click on the link on the Home Page. Then click the Register link to set up your account.

§ Enter your personal details in exactly the same format as on the registration form. If the information does not match, your registration will not be accepted.

§ When you book an appointment online, you will receive confirmation immediately. There is no need to re-confirm by e-mail or telephone – just arrive promptly on the day!

Queries or Comments?

If you have any questions or comments about using the internet appointment booking facility, first contact the receptionist, who will be pleased to help you, or email altonstreet.admin@nhs.net.