Doctors' union warning over online booking safety risk

The article discusses the concerns raised by the doctors' union, the British Medical Association (BMA), regarding the safety risks associated with the new online booking system for general practitioner (GP) appointments. The BMA warns that the new system could lead to an "online triage tsunami," where patients bypass the traditional method of speaking to a receptionist and directly book appointments online. This could result in GPs being overwhelmed with patients who may not require immediate medical attention, potentially putting their health at risk. The union emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balanced approach, where the online booking system is integrated with the existing consultation methods. This would ensure that patients receive appropriate medical guidance and that GPs can effectively manage their workload. The article highlights the need for a well-designed and carefully implemented online booking system that prioritizes patient safety and the efficient delivery of healthcare services.