The modern healthcare landscape faces significant challenges. Utilising private consultations with NHS GPs offers potential solutions.
By introducing flexible private appointments, Doctaly aims to alleviate NHS pressures. Their latest crowdfunding is a step towards national expansion.
Transforming GP Services
Doctaly has initiated a transformation in how GP services are accessed in the UK. Through innovative scheduling, NHS GPs can now offer private consultations around their official NHS hours. This model, reminiscent of private practices in dentistry, has already shown promising results, with patients embracing the flexibility and ease of bookable appointments.
In London, this service model was piloted successfully, reflecting a clear demand. Over a six-month period, Doctaly facilitated 500 private consultations across 10 practices in Barnet and Enfield. The initiative’s success is highlighted by the rapid sign-up of 25 practices and 50 GPs in London, underscoring its appeal to both practitioners and patients.
Crowdfunding for Expansion
The recent launch of Doctaly’s crowdfunding campaign aims to gather £500,000 for nationwide expansion. With a minimum investment threshold of £10, this initiative on Crowdcube seeks public involvement.
The funds will support growth into major UK cities by the end of 2018. Additionally, the investment will aid in the development of mobile apps to enhance user experience and expand the service’s market reach.
Appetite for Change
There is a significant appetite for Doctaly’s innovative service which could shift the healthcare paradigm in the UK.
Ben Teichman, co-founder and CEO of Doctaly, remarked, “Our platform is not only a business venture but also a substantial contributor to easing the NHS burden while improving GP access for patients nationwide.“
Investors are offered meaningful incentives, including free consultations, as part of their investment benefits. Patients who invest can secure appointments for friends and family, demonstrating the personal and wider community advantages of supporting the initiative.
Cost and Flexibility
Consultations on the Doctaly platform are offered at a competitive price point, ranging from £39.99 to £69.99. These 15-minute face-to-face appointments provide greater flexibility than standard NHS options.
The extra five minutes compared to the average NHS consultation is a welcomed enhancement, as it allows more thorough interaction between GPs and patients.
Encouraging GP Participation
Doctaly encourages GP participation with attractive investment options. GPs investing £150 or more can retain all revenue generated from appointments in their first six months.
Additionally, GPs who invest £1,200 or more are gifted with a medical-grade ECG device, further incentivising their involvement in this progressive service.
The firm hopes these measures will encourage more GPs to offer private appointments, thus reducing NHS pressures and better serving the population’s needs.
Future Prospects
Looking forward, Doctaly aims for a presence in every major UK city by late 2018, potentially revolutionising access to GP services.
Crowdfunding plays a crucial role in this ambitious expansion, opening up opportunities for public investment in the healthcare sector.
This innovative approach aims not only to provide a return on investment but also to contribute to systemic improvements in healthcare delivery.
Strategic Implementation
Doctaly’s approach aligns strategically with increasing demands for accessible healthcare. By offering private services, they provide an alternative to the often overburdened NHS queues.
Doctaly’s pioneering platform represents a significant stride in modernising healthcare access. Its strategic expansion leverages public support, benefiting patients and practitioners alike. The future of GP access looks promising with such innovating thinking at the helm.
