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What are Virtual Group Consultations (VGCs)?

patients

given

chance to share their stories and learn from others

supported by

experts

Summary

When groups of patients come together and share their stories with each other, you have a group consultation. However, do it online and it’s a Virtual Group Consultation!

Why

Sometimes having an illness may make you feel alone or a burden on others. Having the chance to meet others in a similar place can help you share your story and learn from what others.

Resulting in

The chance to meet multiple clinicians, as well as peers who are going through the same thing as you. Clinicians work as facilitators, helping and guiding the group, rather than dictating what is spoken about.

We have tried Skype Consultations many years ago, which wasn’t successful. However since COVID19 struck, GP surgeries have had to do things a little differently, to avoid the spread of the virus. So you may have noticed we offer more access through online messaging and telephone appointments. But what is a VGC?

Well, it stands for Virtual Group Consultation. It’s when you speak to your GP or other clinician to discuss your health, but done online, on your computer, smartphone or tablet. You’ll be in a small group of other patients with the same issues. You can discuss your own condition as normal, but you’ll also be able to discuss with peers who will understand what you’re going through – if you want to.

Take a look at this video which explains a bit more about what to expect from a VGC…

If you and your GP think it would help you to have a group consultation like this, you’ll be invited you to join one, when it’s convenient for you.

Remember, when you join a VGC, you are agreeing to keep other people’s information confidential.