FOI 2025/1369

Under the Freedom of Information Act (2000), I am writing to request information concerning access to GP appointments for older people (age 75 and over) in Greater Manchester, particularly those who are not online.

As the NHS 10-Year Plan outlines a shift toward services being “digital by default,” we are seeking to understand how this is being implemented locally and what steps are being taken to ensure that older adults without internet access are not disadvantaged when accessing primary care services.

Please provide the following information in relation to your ICB area:

1. For GP practices in your area, please indicate the total number of practices in your area and the percentage that offer each of the following booking options to patients:
a. Online booking
b. Telephone booking
c. In-person booking

2. For the period between 1st April 2024 to 31st March 2025, please provide the percentage of patients aged 75 and over who were offered appointments via the following methods:
a. In-person
b. Online – telephone consultation
c. Online – video consultation

3. For those individuals who do not have internet access, particularly older adults, please list the alternative options available to patients to enable them to access GP services?

When submitting your response, it would be helpful if you could also provide details of the service providers/surgeries/practices covered in your area.

1 (a,b,c) It is understood that all GP practices offer each of these booking options to patients.
2 (a,b,c) NHS GM does not hold the data to be able to provide response to this specific question
3. For those individuals who do not have internet access patients are able to access GP services in person and by telephone.