Hundreds of GP practices lose online services after collapse of tech firm

Patients in many parts of the country have been left unable to access their GP surgery online after a tech firm went into administration.

Silicon Practice ran digital services, including websites, online booking and consultations, for around 500 practices in England – just under 10% of the total.

Practices across the country, including in London, Gloucestershire and Norfolk, have reported problems. Services in Wales are also affected.

GP leaders said the problem would cause huge disruption, given the scale of online booking that now takes places.

Patients in areas that are affected are being advised they will have to make appointments via the phone. The NHS app is working.

Since last year, all practices in England have had to offer online appointment booking. Currently, more than 40% of appointments are made that way.

An NHS England spokesperson said while "the majority" of GP practice websites were running as normal, some using Silicon Practice will be affected.

"If your GP practice website is unavailable and you need help, you should contact your practice by phone or in person as usual."

Affected practices have been contacted by NHS England with advice on how to maintain business continuity and minimise the impact on patient care.

Silicon Practice ran the digital tool FootFall, which it advertised as reducing patient phone calls to practices by 30%, by working to "free your reception team from routine admin and manage demand more efficiently. Proven in 1,000+ GP practices across the UK".

Prof Victoria Tzortziou Brown, president of the Royal College of GPs, said: "GP practice websites are an increasingly important way for patients to access care, book appointments and find information about the services available to them.

"When websites are not working, it can be hugely disruptive for patients and place additional pressures on already stretched practice teams.

"It is vital that any disruption to practice websites is addressed promptly to ensure patients are able to access care."

She said affected practices must receive prompt, practical support from NHS England and local NHS organisations to restore their websites, minimise disruption and ensure patients know how to contact their practice and access the care they need in the meantime.