Following a successful pilot project, from 1 September 2015 all GP practices in the Isle of Man will offer online services such as booking a routine appointment, ordering a repeat prescription and notifying a change of address.

In October 2014, practices upgraded to ‘EMIS Web’, a computer system which gives doctors and nurses access to the most up-to-date and appropriate patient information at all times, and so helps to deliver excellent care. The upgrade also made online services available through EMIS Patient Access.

Patients who register for GP online services will be able to:

• view, book and cancel routine appointments;
• order repeat prescriptions;
• update their address details; and,
• view key parts of their medical records such as immunisation and current medications.

Minister for Health and Social Care, Howard Quayle MHK said: “The Government’s Digital Strategy will lead to better and more convenient access to information and services for the public.

“The launch of GP online services is a highlight for modern healthcare in the Isle of Man, giving access to much used services at a time and place convenient to the patient. This will also lead to fewer phone calls and allow practice staff to focus on delivering patient care.

“GPs and their staff are leading the way in working with the Department and Government Technology Services to provide healthcare more effectively and efficiently.”

To register for GP online services, patients will only need to visit their local practice with photographic identification (driving licence or passport) and a document showing their name and address such as a utility bill, and staff will activate the service and give guidance on how to start using it.

GP online services are also available as a mobile app which is free for iOS and Android devices, although patients must still register for the service at their local practice.