Millions Delay Medical Care Every Year
More than 11.5 million people – roughly 22 percent of the adult population – skipped a doctor’s appointment during the Covid‑19 pandemic because they feared adding strain to an already busy health system.
GPs warn against delaying care
Research commissioned by a major insurer found that GPs estimate about 75 percent of their weekly consultations could be handled remotely. Roughly 35 percent might be conducted over the phone, with another 40 percent using video calls. In‑person visits would remain essential for certain examinations.
On average, a GP sees 20 patients a day. When virtual appointments are added, that number could rise to 27, a 35 percent increase, according to the study. The boost in capacity comes from reduced time for room turnover and the ability to fit appointments into gaps in the schedule.
Which conditions suit virtual care?
Doctors indicate that mental‑health concerns are the most suitable for remote discussion, with 96 percent of GPs preferring a virtual format. The same proportion would feel comfortable addressing general feelings of illness, while 95 percent would discuss symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhoea online.
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Pre‑existing medical conditions also rank high, with 93 percent of physicians favoring virtual consultations for ongoing management. Sexual‑health issues are seen as appropriate by 64 percent of respondents.
Benefits cited by practitioners include a lower risk of infection for both staff (65 percent) and other patients (43 percent). An additional 36 percent value the ability to see more patients each day, while 27 percent note that virtual appointments reduce the likelihood of cancellations. Comfort speaking from home is mentioned by 22 percent of GPs.
Nevertheless, more than half of doctors—52 percent—stress that certain physical problems, such as back injuries, still require face‑to‑face assessment. Likewise, 49 percent would see a patient in person if a lump or other bodily change is detected.
These findings suggest a hybrid model may become the new norm. While remote care can handle many routine and follow‑up visits, hands‑on examinations will remain indispensable for a range of conditions.
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Virtual care is growing.
Looking ahead, the shift toward virtual health could reshape how primary care is delivered. If the capacity gains hold, patients might experience shorter wait times and more flexible scheduling. However, ensuring that technology does not become a barrier for those lacking reliable internet access will be essential to avoid widening health disparities.
Chloe Couper, Business Manager at Direct Line Life Insurance, remarked that the current environment makes it understandable that many people worry about overburdening health services. She emphasized that individuals should continue to seek medical advice if they notice any signs of illness, noting that most issues can be resolved quickly if addressed early.
Couper added that virtual appointments offer greater availability and convenience while reducing infection risk. Direct Line Life Insurance provides customers with unlimited 24/7 access to virtual GPs through its Smart Health online app, allowing users to book appointments at times that suit them.
