Group consultationsto address health and wellbeing needs of patients are recognised as being effective and an efficient use of clinicians’ time. They also provide a safe environment where patients can gain mutual support from others with a shared health condition as part of their self-management.
Current Solutions
The beta version of Near Me Groups is now available and Group Consultation Waiting Areas can be created.
Although a beta release, by which we mean it is functional, but missing a few features such as a chat function, the system will be of use to many providers now.
The system is currently limited to a maximum of 30 participants for up to two hours. These limits will rise with the final release.
Groups Set Up
Information on how to set up a Group Waiting Area can be found here.
How to run a group consultation
To help with scheduling and running Near Me Groups we have produced Interim Near Me Group Guidance to help get you started.
We have also produced a Readiness Guide to help you prepare for a group you may have previously delivered in person.
In addition, there is a “Test Call Checklist” to help with getting group participants connected prior to the group starting.
Once you have your waiting area, please refer to the simple guides for both Service Providers and Callers found here.
