The use of online and video consultations is part of the NHS Long Term Plan and an increase in use was integral to primary care’s response to COVID-19. In order to obtain a complete picture of these consultations, NHS England directed NHS Digital to formalise a standard data collection of online consultations and video consultations undertaken in General Practice beyond the national COVID-19 response.

The data collected will provide vital information both to General Practices and local commissioners on implementation, support, resource and to provide an indication of the amount of activity taking place via these channels to demonstrate demand on General Practice from patients.