Connecting Communities: Discussions at Hope East Cleveland Church

Whilst only two individuals wanted their blood pressures measured, many individuals stated they regularly check readings with machines at home, indicating positive signs that the community are taking preventative actions to monitor such conditions. Positive discussions on the local GP surgeries emerged, with a gentleman expressing immense gratitude to Brotton Surgery, where he has being registered for the past 35 years, stating ‘I couldn’t fault the service’ and later when on to discuss the personal touches and quality of care they provide. 

Further discussion covered the current shift in NHS systems from analogue to digital, and the awareness and use of the NHS app, and the new ‘NHS Online’ system to be rolled out in 2027. Many locals stated they have started to the use the NHS app after previously being reluctant and now use it to book appointments and order repeat subscriptions highlighting it’s benefit to many. Whilst many express it’s benefits, several residents were concerned over the potential safety and security of stored health records, with recent cyber attack on big chain superstores. Mixed reception was received on the proposed ‘NHS Online’ with some in favour of the approach whilst others were apprehensive towards it’s benefits. 

This engagement provided beneficial insight into the use of digital systems, and how the community demonstrate mixed feelings of it’s benefits. This provides a strong opportunity to further explore varying methods of healthcare communication for those wanting to remain with traditional methods.