Use of video group consultations by general practice staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Why you should read this article: • To explore the use and uptake of video group consultations (VGCs) by UK general practice staff during the COVID-19 pandemic • To enhance your awareness of the potential use of VGCs in your clinical setting • To recognise that the use of VGCs is dependent on funding, organisational support, general practice priorities and understanding of the model. Background: Video group consultations (VGCs) are one approach to delivering care using a virtual platform for a group of patients with the same or similar health conditions. However, little is known about the use and uptake of VGCs in the UK. Aim: To describe the use and uptake of VGCs by UK general practice staff during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. Method: A cross-sectional design using an online questionnaire. Data analysis adopted the principles of content analysis and demographic data were analysed descriptively. Findings: A total of 36 participants completed the questionnaire across nine UK regions and representing 36 general practices. A lack of standardisation regarding the use and uptake of VGCs across UK general practices was identified, hindering implementation, scale-up and delivery. Conclusion: While the VGC model looks promising, further research is needed to demonstrate its use and uptake, developing a more robust evidence base for implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]