Patients are increasingly being asked to access online systems to:

• request prescriptions or make medication requests
• access healthcare records and test results
• make appointments
• communicate health concerns
• sign consent forms.

These developments can have a positive impact but they can also carry potential challenges, as highlighted in this recent blog -  Digital-only prescription requests: An elderly woman sent round the houses.

We'd like to hear your experiences of using online systems in healthcare.

Have they made things easier? Does it feel like your care is more joined up for it?

Have any of these changes been challenging? If so why? 

Comment below (sign up first for free) or contact us directly at [email protected] to share your experience.

Online healthcare systems have definitely made some parts of care more convenient. Being able to request prescription refills, check test results, and receive notifications without waiting on hold saves a lot of time. When the systems work well, it feels as though different parts of healthcare are better connected and information is easier to access.

That said, there are still challenges. Many portals are not very intuitive, and some patients, especially older adults or those who are not comfortable with technology, can struggle with multiple logins, verification steps, or navigating different platforms for different services. A simple prescription request can sometimes become more complicated than a quick phone call.

One positive approach is when digital tools are offered alongside traditional support rather than replacing it completely. Community-focused pharmacies can offer online prescription refill options, but access to pharmacists and personal assistance remains important when patients need clarification or run into issues. That balance between convenience and human support can make a real difference.

Overall, online healthcare systems have great potential, but they work best when they improve access without creating barriers for people who need extra help.

Edited 15 July15 Jul by Patient Safety Learning
Removed specific mention of a pharmacy as advertorial