Growing Shift Towards Digital Healthcare
The way Britons access healthcare is undergoing a significant transformation, with millions opting for digital GP consultations over traditional in-person visits. New data from ZAVA, a leading digital healthcare platform, reveals that 15 million people (28%) in the UK have used online GP services in the past year, while over 29 million now rely on online repeat prescriptions. Additionally, two million have turned to private digital GP appointments, reflecting a growing demand for convenience and accessibility in healthcare.
NHS Pressures Driving the Surge in Digital Consultations
With NHS waiting lists at record highs and nearly 7.46 million NHS appointments delayed, frustration with GP access is mounting. Nearly 64% of Britons express dissatisfaction with long waiting times, pushing many to explore alternative healthcare options. According to ZAVA’s report, digital healthcare is increasingly seen as a solution, particularly among younger generations—15% of Gen Z and Millennials have already used private online GP services.
For many, virtual consultations offer a practical solution. Over 51% of patients believe online GP appointments save time, while 45% appreciate the ability to access treatment more easily when needed. However, NHS GPs have raised concerns over a new contractual requirement that mandates them to keep online consultation tools available during working hours. This underscores the ongoing tension between patient demand for convenience and the sustainability of GP workloads.
Affordability and Trust: Barriers to Adoption
While digital GP services offer a faster alternative, cost remains a significant barrier for many. 40% of Britons would consider using online healthcare if it were more affordable, yet only 27% are currently willing to pay for a virtual GP consultation. This highlights a critical issue while demand for digital healthcare is clear, financial constraints prevent widespread adoption.
Trust is another challenge. Currently, only 25% of patients believe that online GP services can match the quality of in-person consultations. Additionally, the rise of AI-driven healthcare has sparked scepticism—61% of Britons fear that AI is replacing doctors too quickly, and just 18% feel comfortable receiving a diagnosis from an AI system.
Balancing Innovation with Accessibility
David Meinertz, CEO and Co-Founder of ZAVA, emphasises the need for an inclusive approach to healthcare transformation: “Healthcare innovation must go beyond offering another option it must ensure that option is truly accessible. Many still see digital services as an expensive luxury rather than a practical alternative. The future of healthcare isn’t about replacing doctors with AI; it’s about ensuring that people can access the medical care they need, when they need it, in a way that is affordable and transparent.”
ZAVA, one of Europe’s leading digital healthcare providers, has delivered over 12 million consultations across the UK, Ireland, France, and Germany. Unlike traditional private healthcare, which often relies on costly subscriptions or employer-backed insurance, ZAVA provides on-demand doctor-led consultations, prescriptions, and testing without unnecessary expenses.
The Future of Digital Healthcare in the UK
As the UK government implements an £889 million GP support plan to ease NHS pressures, many argue that these efforts may not fully address the root cause of patient dissatisfaction. The growing preference for digital healthcare underscores the need for a sustainable solution that balances innovation, accessibility, and affordability.
With millions already turning to online healthcare, the future of the UK’s GP system may depend on how effectively digital services integrate with traditional healthcare to provide trustworthy, efficient, and affordable medical care for all.
