Rapid Health Triage System

 

From early October 2025. 

We are thrilled to introduce our new and improved booking system that puts you in control of your healthcare journey.

We have been aware for some time that it is increasingly difficult for patients to get an appointment with one of our GPs.  Over the last few months we looked for the best way to improve access for all our patients and decided to implement a triage system.  We hope that by putting all requests into one system call Rapid Health, we can review them and ensure patients are offered appointments based on clinical need.  The requests will be triaged by our experienced clinical team. 

Some appointments cannot be booked online. The following must still be booked through the Reception team:

  • Nursing appointments (e.g. blood tests, cervical screening, vaccinations and injections)
  • Annual reviews (e.g. Diabetes, Hypertension, respiratory)
  • Medication Reviews
  • Post natal appointments and baby checks
  • Contraceptive procedures and minor operations
  • Home Visits

For patients who do not have online access, our Reception Team will be able to help you book your appointment and complete the form with you.

Please watch this video to give you an idea on what to expect.

 

FAQs

How do I book an appointment?

You will need to go to our website and click on the Rapid Health banner, there will also be QR codes on posters in the surgery.  We understand that not everyone can do this online. Our reception team will be here to help and take you through the online form the online form on the telephone or in person at the surgery.  Please note our Reception Team will be asking you the same questions on the questionnaire if completing on your behalf and some of these questions may be of a personal nature.

What if I need a same day urgent appointment?

If your problem is clinically urgent you will be offered a same day appointment.

Will patients who book online get more access to appointments?

No.  All appointments that can be booked online are also available to book with help from our Reception Team.

Can I order my prescriptions through this system?

No.  Rapid Health is only for triaging appointments.  Please continue to order your prescription online or by dropping in your request to the letterbox at Portslade Health Centre.

What do I do if I want to see a specific GP?

When you book your appointment, the available GPs for that day will be shown and you will be able to book.

What if I want to pre-book an appointment?

After completing the Rapid Health Questionnaire an appointment will be offered within the appropriate time frame.

Why have I been offered an appointment with this clinician?

Patients will be offered an appointment with the most appropriate clinician.

My problem is personal and I only want to tell a GP?

Simply complete the Rapid Health Questionnaire online.  Only the GPs will see this.  If you require support to complete the form, please call Reception and they will help you with the questions.  Every employee at Portslade Health Centre adheres to our confidentiality policy.

I have come to the reception desk to book an appointment - why will reception not book me an appointment like they used to?

We will be encouraging all of our patients to complete the online questionnaire in order to book the most appropriate appointment with one of our clinicians.  Our Reception Team will be happy to support you to complete the questionnaire if you are unable to.

How will I book a follow up appointment?

If you require a follow up appointment the GPs will send you a link which will allow you to book an appointment if required.

I need a sick note - what do I do?

If you need an existing sick note extending or require a review, please fill out the Rapid Health Admin Questionnaire and your request will be dealt with accordingly.  If you have a new request you will need to self-certificate for 7 days.

What about under 16 year olds?

Parents will be able to submit their request on behalf of their child but will need to use their own email address.  If you do not have an email address on file, you can complete the following form via our website Change of Contact Details Form. The GP will manually triage the request and send you a link to book the appropriate appointment.  Over 12 year olds will be able to submit their own requests if they want to.

I require an interpreter/assistance for my appointment.

All patients will receive a text/email confirming their appointment. In this message it will tell you to contact the surgery if you require an interpreter or assistance.

Published: Sep 8, 2025