Supporting practices with digital tools
Supporting practices to secure digital tools (online consultation, messaging, appointment booking, demand and capacity) is part of the primary care access recovery plan. Funding is available in 2024/25 to support the purchase of these tools. In 2024/25 there will be flexibility in the approach. Integrated care boards (ICBs) should work collaboratively with primary care networks (PCNs), practices and the national commercial and procurement hub to ensure the necessary tools are in place, by using or extending existing frameworks, directly contracting with suppliers who meet new national standards and by securing a greater range of demand and capacity planning tools. Practices/PCNs should continue to link with ICB digital leads to ensure their requirements are discussed.