Summary
The British Medical Association (BMA) is worried that a new online booking system for GP appointments in England might miss serious health problems. They want the government to pause the rollout to make sure it can tell the difference between urgent and non-urgent cases. The government insists it has safeguards and plans to continue with the rollout.
Key Facts
- The BMA has expressed concerns that the new online system might miss serious health issues.
- The online booking system is set to launch across England for GP appointments.
- Health Secretary Wes Streeting says safeguards are in place for urgent appointments.
- The BMA wants to pause the rollout to make improvements to avoid serious case delays.
- The union warns of increased demand without sufficient staff support as an "online triage tsunami."
- A possible "work to rule" situation could occur if the government doesn't adjust the scheme.
- The government notes that many GPs already use online booking and stresses patient interests.
- Wes Streeting emphasizes that patients should be able to book appointments online, like other services.
