It's not just bureaucratic jargon. The evidence is crystal clear. A landmark systematic review by Bazemore et al. (2023) revealed a well known primary care truth: continuity of care isn't just a nice-to-have. It's a powerful lever that can reduce healthcare spend, improve patient outcomes, and boost patient satisfaction.
The era of the traditional family GP who knows generations of your family is waning. With a shrinking GP workforce, we need a new approach. Enter digital continuity.
Digital continuity isn't about replacing human connection. It's about enhancing it. Think of it like your banking app - most interactions happen seamlessly online, but that critical moment when you need expert advice remains available.
Take diabetes care. Continuous glucose monitoring and smart insulin pumps have transformed type 1 diabetes management. Patients are no longer passive recipients but active managers of their health.
Imagine a world where:
One less routine follow-up means 15 more minutes for someone who desperately needs personalised care.
This approach isn't a universal solution. The NHS 2025-26 contract recognizes this, mandating online request capabilities while preserving traditional access models.
Integrated neighbourhood teams and experienced generalists remain crucial. Digital continuity doesn't replace them - it empowers them.
Primary care stands at a crossroads. We need boldness. We need to embrace digital tools that can:
Digital continuity could be the key to preserving and enhancing traditional continuity.
The future of healthcare isn't about choosing between digital and human. It's about intelligently combining both.
Dr Tim Cooper Medical Director, Suvera
