Written by the AccessGP Team, reviewed by Dr Zamiel Hussain, Founder of AccessGP
Digital GP services are now a normal part of healthcare in the UK. What began as simple video consultations has evolved into a much broader model of care that combines speed, continuity, diagnostics and clinical accountability.
But not all online GP services are the same.
In 2025, patients are rightly asking better questions:
Who is the GP?
How are decisions made?
What happens after the consultation?
And is this safe, joined-up care, or just convenience?
This article explains what modern digital GP care should look like, how it has changed, and how to use it responsibly.
Why digital GP services have grown so quickly
Demand for GP care continues to rise, driven by:
- An ageing population
- More long term conditions
- Increased awareness of mental and physical health
- Pressure on traditional appointment systems
At the same time, patients expect healthcare to be:
- Accessible
- Flexible
- Transparent
- Clinically robust
Digital GP services have filled that gap, offering same day access, remote consultations and faster follow up. When done properly, this improves access without compromising standards.
“Digital GP care works best when technology supports clinical judgement rather than replacing it. Speed matters, but safe, thoughtful decision making matters more.”
Dr Zamiel Hussain, Lead GP and Founder of AccessGP
What digital GP care looks like in 2025
Modern digital GP services are no longer just video calls. The strongest services now integrate several key elements.
1. GP led assessment, not algorithm only care
Technology should support clinical decision making, not replace it. Safe digital GP care still relies on:
- A qualified GMC registered GP
- Full history taking
- Risk assessment and safety netting
- Clear documentation
AI tools and digital triage can help, but final decisions must sit with a clinician.
2. Same day access with continuity
Speed matters, but so does continuity. In 2025, good digital GP services aim to:
- Offer same day or next day appointments
- Provide follow up with the same GP where possible
- Maintain clear records across consultations
This avoids fragmented care and repeated storytelling.
3. Integrated diagnostics
One of the biggest advances in digital GP care is access to diagnostics. This includes:
- Blood tests
- Imaging such as ultrasound or MRI
- Remote prescribing
- Home or clinic based sample collection
Digital care should not stop at advice. It should allow investigation and follow up where clinically appropriate.
4. Clear boundaries and safe escalation
Responsible digital GP services are clear about:
- What can be safely managed online
- When in person examination is needed
- When urgent or emergency care is required
This clarity protects patients and clinicians alike.
What digital GP services are best suited for
Digital GP care works particularly well for:
- Acute infections such as UTIs, sinusitis or tonsillitis
- Skin problems and rashes
- Medication reviews and repeats
- Mental health reviews
- Blood test interpretation
- Chronic disease follow up
- Preventative health and lifestyle medicine
For many patients, these issues can be safely and effectively managed without a physical appointment.
Around one in three GP appointments in England now takes place remotely, including online video and telephone consultations, showing how digital care has become a lasting part of primary care delivery in 2025.
Common misconceptions about online GP care
“Online GPs are only for minor problems”
In reality, many complex conditions begin with history taking and investigations. Digital GP care often acts as the first step in a structured care pathway.
“It is just about speed”
Speed is helpful, but quality matters more. Good services prioritise correct diagnosis, clear explanation and appropriate follow up.
“There is no accountability”
CQC regulation, GMC registration and clinical governance still apply. Reputable providers operate under the same professional standards as face to face care.
How AccessGP approaches digital GP care
At AccessGP, digital care is built around three principles:
1. GP led decision making
All consultations are carried out by experienced UK GPs. Prescribing, investigations and referrals are based on clinical judgement, not templates alone.
2. Joined up pathways
We combine consultations with blood tests, imaging, physiotherapy and specialist referrals where needed. Patients are not left with isolated advice or unexplained results.
3. Education and transparency
Our Knowledge Base explains common conditions, tests and treatments in plain language. This helps patients understand their care beyond the appointment itself.
Is digital GP care right for everyone?
Not always. Some situations still require physical examination, face to face assessment or urgent hospital care. A good digital GP service will tell you this clearly and early.
For many people, however, digital GP care offers:
- Faster access
- Greater flexibility
- Clear explanations
- Continuity outside standard hours
When used appropriately, it complements traditional care rather than replacing it.
The future of GP care
In 2025 and beyond, the question is no longer whether digital GP services will exist, but how safely and responsibly they are delivered.
The most trusted services will be those that balance technology with clinical judgement, speed with safety, and access with continuity.
Key sources: AccessGP Clinical Knowledge Base; NHS UK, Online GP services; Care Quality Commission, Technology enabled care; General Medical Council, Remote consultations guidance; ZAVA, Online GP services overview.