How to Use Telehealth & Video Doctor Appointments

Book and attend an NHS or private online doctor appointment from your phone, tablet, or computer — no waiting room required.

In this guide (6 steps):

1.What is telehealth?
2.Book an NHS video appointment through your GP surgery
3.Set yourself up before the call
4.Join the call
5.During the call
6.After the call

What is telehealth?

~26s

Telehealth (also called a video consultation) lets you speak to a doctor, nurse, or specialist via a video call — just like FaceTime or Zoom, but for medical appointments. Many NHS GPs now offer this alongside in-person visits, and private services like Babylon, Push Doctor, and Livi offer same-day appointments through an app.

Quick Tip

Telehealth is great for minor illnesses, repeat prescriptions, test results, and mental health check-ins. For anything that needs a physical examination, an in-person visit is still best.

Book an NHS video appointment through your GP surgery

~20s

Contact your GP surgery as normal — by phone or their online booking system. Ask for a "telephone consultation" or "video consultation." Many surgeries use NHS-approved platforms like Attend Anywhere or AccuRx. You'll receive a text or email with a link to click when it's time for your appointment — you don't need to download anything.

Set yourself up before the call

~27s

A few minutes before your appointment: find a quiet, well-lit spot (face a window if possible so the doctor can see you clearly). Make sure your device is charged or plugged in. Have a list of your symptoms, medications, and any questions ready. Test your camera and microphone — on an iPhone, open the Camera app to check the front camera works.

Quick Tip

Write down your symptoms and how long you've had them before the call. Doctors appreciate a clear, concise summary.

Join the call

~29s

When it's time, click or tap the link you were sent — it usually opens in your web browser. You may be asked to allow access to your camera and microphone — tap "Allow." You'll often enter a virtual waiting room and the doctor will join when ready. If using an app like Livi or Babylon, open the app and tap "Join Consultation" when prompted.

Warning

If the link doesn't work, try a different browser (Chrome works best). If you can't connect, call the surgery immediately — they can switch to a telephone call.

During the call

~25s

Speak clearly and describe your symptoms as you would in person. The doctor may ask you to hold your phone up to show them a rash, swollen area, or your throat. They can send prescriptions electronically to your nominated pharmacy — no need to collect a paper prescription. The call is confidential and is not recorded without your consent.

Quick Tip

If you have trouble hearing the doctor, ask them to speak up or use headphones for better audio.

After the call

~27s

If the doctor issued a prescription, it should reach your pharmacy within a few hours — call ahead to confirm before travelling. You may receive a follow-up message through the NHS app or by text with any advice or referrals. If your condition worsens or you're unsure about advice given, call 111 for non-emergency medical help.

Quick Tip

Download the NHS App (search "NHS App" in your app store) to view your GP health record, book appointments, and request repeat prescriptions all in one place.

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