Using BLINX: Our New Digital Front Door
To help improve how patients contact us and to make it easier for you to get the right care, Storrsdale Medical Centre is introducing BLINX, our new digital front door for contacting the practice.
BLINX gives patients a quick and convenient way to:
- Request appointments
- Ask non-urgent medical questions
- Order repeat prescriptions
- Receive updates and messages from the practice
This change is part of national improvements set out in the NHS Modern General Practice Model, which promotes giving patients more choice in how they contact their GP – including telephone, online and in-person routes. [england.nhs.uk]
We Want to Reassure All Patients: You Will NOT Lose Access to Care
Digital access is being added as an option, not replacing any existing routes.
We know that not everyone can or wants to use online services, and we remain fully committed to providing equitable, inclusive access for all patients. NHS guidance emphasises the importance of offering inclusive and effective access routes, including both digital and telephone options. [ncltraininghub.org]
So please be assured:
- You can still telephone the practice to request an appointment. One of our team member will complete the triage questions and navigate you to the right clinican.
- You can still come into the practice in person if you need help.
- We will continue to support patients who cannot use digital tools, including older adults and those with accessibility needs.
- Our care navigation team will help you find the right support in the simplest way, whether online, by phone or in person.
No patient will ever be refused care because they cannot use BLINX or do not have internet access.
Why We Are Introducing BLINX
Using a digital front door helps us:
- Respond more quickly to patient requests
- Match patients to the most appropriate clinician
- Reduce phone queue lengths
- Better manage demand across the practice
- Improve overall patient experience
These improvements follow national NHS guidance on making GP access more efficient, fair and user‑friendly. [england.nhs.uk]
Need Help? We Are Here to Support You
If you are unsure how to use BLINX, or if you cannot access digital services, please speak to our reception team.
We will make sure you can access care in the way that works best for you.
Thank you for your understanding and for working with us to improve how we provide care.