Exciting Benefits of the New System
Starting 14th July, we are introducing SystmConnect, a new, easy-to-use system that will offer the following benefits:
- User-Friendly Design: The system is designed to be straightforward. You’ll select the most relevant questionnaire based on your symptoms.
- More Efficient Online Access: You can now submit requests online for appointments, prescriptions, and more, helping us respond more quickly and reducing pressure on our phone lines.
- Self-Booking Appointments: You’ll be able to book your own appointments through a self-booking link sent to you, selecting the time, date, and clinician that works best for you.
- More Choice & Flexibility: Your Patient Participation Group (PPG) trialled the new system and found it straightforward to use, appreciating the added choice when booking appointments.
- Change in Times for Submitting Forms: Forms will be available from 7am to 10am initially, with plans to extend availability to 8am to 6pm by October for routine appointments.
Transition Away from PATCHS
- Why Are We Switching?
Our contract with PATCHS is ending, and after considering your feedback and reviewing other systems, we’ve chosen SystmConnect to improve your experience. This decision is supported by our Integrated Care Board (ICB). - PATCHS Accounts
All PATCHS accounts will be deactivated on 7th July 2025, with the last day for submitting requests through PATCHS being Friday 4th July. Any data you’ve submitted through PATCHS will be transferred to Beccles Medical Centre’s records or securely stored in a digital archive. - One-Week Transition (7th – 14th July)
During this period, we will operate a telephone-only request service, prioritising urgent appointments.
How to Access and Use the New System
- System Overview
The new system, SystmConnect, is developed by TPP, the company behind our patient records software. If you already use SystmOnline or the NHS App, you can log in with those accounts. - No Account Needed
You don’t need an account to use the new system, but having an NHS login or SystmOnline account will make filling out forms easier by auto-populating your details. If you don’t have an account, you’ll need to manually input your personal information. - Accessing Forms
The system will be available through a link on the homepage of our website. We’ll also provide an information guide for you to so you can better understand how our system will work.
Key Features of the New System
- Requesting Appointments:
You can submit requests for both urgent and routine appointments. Forms will initially be available from 7am to 10am, with a gradual expansion to 8am to 6pm for routine requests. Urgent requests will be triaged and booked according to clinical need and capacity which may mean urgent request forms will be capped. - Ordering Repeat Prescriptions & Health Reviews:
You’ll be able to order repeat prescriptions and complete health reviews, streamlining your experience. - Requesting Sick Notes:
The new system will allow you to easily request sick notes as needed. - Submitting Queries:
Administrative queries can now be submitted easily online. - Self-Booking Appointments:
You can book appointments using self-booking links which we will send you, where you’ll be able to select a date, time, and clinician. This feature was highly praised by your PPG for its flexibility and convenience.
Support and Assistance
- Help with the New System
Our team is here to support you if you encounter any issues with the new system. You can view a detailed guide on how to use our new system here. We’ll also hold drop-in clinics if you need additional help. - Can’t Use Online Services?
If you or someone you care for cannot access the new system, please call the practice, and a Care Navigator will be happy to help complete the form for you.
Website Updates
- Website Navigation
While the website address will remain the same, we will update the menu options to make it easier for you to find and use the new forms. Your PPG is assisting with these updates to ensure they are clear and helpful.
We’re excited about this new system and hope it will improve your experience with us. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out.