Care on Demand: helping members through the Coronavirus crisis
31 March 2020
With huge demand on GPs and hospitals due to the spread of Coronavirus, members of the West Midlands Police Federation Group Insurance Scheme (GIS) are being reminded that they can gain access to a GP 24/7 through the Care on Demand service.
And Care on Demand is available not just to GIS members but also their eligible dependents.
“We are already aware of at least two officers suffering COVID-19 symptoms who have been diagnosed over a phone/video call consultation with Care on Demand,” says Tim Rogers, deputy secretary of West Midlands Police Federation.
The members were pleased with the service they received, saying: “The Care on Demand service is absolutely fantastic, both my husband and I have been using this for our worrying COVID-19 issues. The service is outstanding and has enabled regular advice to be obtained and really made us feel better about this dreadful situation.”
Through the service, members arrange an appointment with a GMC licensed GP and can do this whether in the UK or while abroad. For any non-emergency case, whether physical or mental, members can discuss health concerns with a GP via phone or video consultation.
Calls can normally be arranged within two hours of your request. And, unlike a GP visit, there is no time limit on the consultation (video consultations are for up to 30 minutes) and you can ask more than one question.
Furthermore, the Care on Demand GP can arrange for a private referral to be sent to you or a private prescription* to be sent to a pharmacy of your choice if you are in the UK.
It’s a service that is not designed to replace your own GP but to work on conjunction, entirely in line with the Secretary of Health’s strategy of introducing digital solutions to the NHS.
* Within safe online prescribing guidelines.
Care on Demand – frequently asked questions
Q. How do I access the app?
A. Look for the logo above on either the Apple Store or Google Play.
Apple Store
Google Play
Q. Is the service 24/7?
A. Yes.
Q. What is the ID reference for the app?
A. It is WESTMIDS2019.
Q. Is it accessible worldwide?
A. Yes.
Q. How long will I wait for an appointment?
A. You select a time from the schedule and GP callback is typically within one to two hours.
Q. How long is an appointment call?
A. Depending on complexity, the average is 15 minutes by phone or 30 minutes by video call.
Q. Is there a limit to the number of times I or may family can use this?
A. No, there are no limits to the consultation service.
Q. Can I add a partner/spouse to my Care on Demand account?
A. No, partners will need to download the app and create their own account using the same ID reference as medical information is confidential.
Q. What is the phone number to call?
A. +44 (0) 203 499 4891.
Q. Is the information shared with my GP?
A. Yes, if you give your consent.
Q. Can the GP issue a prescription or referral letter?
A. Yes, if considered necessary.
Q. Does an adult need to be present for child consultations?
A. Yes, if considered necessary.
Q. At what age will cover for my children cease?
A. Cover for children ceases at age 21 or 25 if still in full-time education.
Q. If accessed outside of the UK will advice be country appropriate?
A. Yes, GP recommendations will reflect where you are at the time.
Care on Demand is available to all members who subscribe to the Federation’s Group Insurance Scheme. If you are not a member of the scheme, you can find out more and complete an application form via our GIS page.
