HOW IT WORKS

At busy times it can be difficult to contact the practice by telephone, and after hours there is no one to answer the phone for routine enquiries. Using the internet, you will be able to view the range of available appointments and take your time to choose the best one for you. You can also send short messages to the practice and see the reply.

GETTING STARTED

You must register to use the internet appointment booking facility. Ask the receptionist for a registration form, and then access the web site and enter the registration details shown on the form. After registering, you log on with your patient number and a password. You will then be able to view appointments you have already made, cancel them if necessary, and book an appointment with your doctor after checking the times available. You can also enter new queries and read the replies to previous ones from practice staff.

SECURITY

We take the security of our patients' information very seriously. By working with EMIS, the company that provides the computer systems for this practice (and for more than 50% of all doctors in the UK), we can ensure that the information you provide when using the internet facility is protected.

All communications with the practice web site are encrypted, using the same high security that major banks use for their internet transactions (128 bit SSL). Only you can see the personal information you enter. The web site is administered at a remote high-security site managed by EMIS, not at the practice, so there is no possibility of unauthorised access.

Using the most up-to-date version of your web browser also improves security of information. Remember to close the browser after use, especially if someone else could access your computer.

HOW TO GET INVOLVED

Ask the receptionist for a registration form which provides the information with which you can access the internet facility.

Access the practice web site at www.warders.co.uk and select "Online Facilities", then click the "Register" link to set up your account.

Enter your personal details in exactly the same format as on the registration form. If the information does not match, your registration will not be accepted.

When you book an appointment online, you will receive confirmation immediately. There is no need to re-confirm by e-mail or telephone - just arrive promptly on the day!

Messages are handled by staff during normal working hours, so there will be a delay before you get your reply. If you have an urgent query, telephone the practice or emergency service as usual.