AskFirst is a new app to help patients get the right healthcare they need at the right time. Nexus Health Group are running of trial for AskFirst for Surrey Docks Health Group patients. AskFirst is free to download.
If you need to see a GP, you can use AskFirst on your mobile phone or smart devices if you have access to the internet.
Features available from via the app include;
- Booking of urgent appointments
- Cancelling and changing your appointments
- A Symptom Checker that can prioritise the urgency of your medical needs (including diverting to A&E and self-care)
- Self-care advice
Features coming soon to the app include;
- Booking of routine appointments
- Booking health reviews – for example blood pressure checks.
How does AskFirst work?
AskFirst is an app that offers patients digital access to their GP practice. Once logged in, patients have access to a variety of services without the need for phoning or visiting.
What are the benefits of using AskFirst?
- You can book your appointments directly with your registered practice.
- You will avoid queuing on the telephone, or in the surgery.
- If appropriate you will get referred to community care services or other medical services.
- The app is available 24/7, 7 days a week.
Where do I get the app from?
AskFirst is available on both IOS, Android phones and smart devices like iPads/Tablets. It is free to download. There is also a web version which can be accessed on PC/Laptop available at https://www.sensely.com/AskFirst.
How does the symptom checker work?
AskFirst enables patients to interact with a virtual healthcare assistant which asks a series of questions (approximately 15) to assess the patient's symptoms. Using NICE accredited evidence based protocol, based on the responses, the healthcare assistant will recommend the most appropriate onward care which includes self-care advice, appropriate GP appointment, GP call back, advice from NHS.uk and direction to urgent or emergency care.
For patients that need to see a GP, the app will prioritise into more urgent appointment slots based on their needs and offer less urgent needs a later appointment. Patients are able to directly book an appointment without having to call the practice. In addition, a record of the questions and answers is sent to the patient's practice, helping to make the consultation more efficient and effective.
Who can access the app?
If your practice has connected to AskFirst you will be able to book GP appointments if appropriate. Anyone can download and use the symptom checker.
When can I use the app?
The app is available to access 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on your personal device.
"How To" Videos
Explore more about the AskFirst app with the 'How To' tutorial videos via the link. For more videos, visit the official AskFirst YouTube page. (Please note on-screen menu options may differ due to version updates)
eConsult
NHS App
