Near Me - Accessing Healthcare from Home

19th October 2022

Near Me is a video consultation platform enabling patients across Highland and Argyll and Bute to attend appointments from the comfort of their own home - or anywhere else convenient.

In September 2022, over 1900 individual consultations in NHS Highland took place using Near Me. Each of these consultations meant a patient saved time on travelling, money, and reduced their effect on the environment.

Each consultant's appointment using Near Me in the Highlands saves an average of 100 miles travelled - that's around 190,000 miles saved last month alone.

There are many appointments covered by Near Me, such as hospital and GP appointments, outpatients appointments, and some treatments such as dietetics and mental health support. From patient feedback, 82.4% of patients said they appreciated not having to travel to their appointments, and 78.1% said it saved them time.

Andrina Robb, Near Me Support Manager for NHS Highland, said: "Near Me has so many benefits to patients, but most importantly it gives them options on accessing healthcare in a way that is easy and comfortable for them. Many people are unable to travel far distances to their hospital appointments due to work schedules, caring responsibilities or mobility issues. Near Me saves patients having to take time off work, organise childcare, or arrange transport.

"The system is also safe and secure, and very straightforward to use. There is no app to download or registration required. Your details remain private, just like any other appointment. All you need is a device for making video calls, like a smartphone, tablet, or laptop, and an internet connection. If you don’t have these things, Near Me rooms are available in some GP Surgeries and other locations. You can even invite along a friend or family member for support, and they can join the call even if they live far away."

Andrina and her team delve into more detail on the various benefits of Near Me in the ‘Be My Guest’ podcast premiering on Inverness Hospital Radio at 18:00 this Saturday 22 October 2022. Catch it live, or listen to it afterwards on the website’s Listen Again page.

If you think Near Me would suit you, ask your consultant if it’s available. Training is also available to help get you set up on system and using it with confidence. Simply email the team at NHSH.NearMeEnquiries@nhs.scot for more information.