PATIENTS registered at GP surgeries in Wyre Forest are being encouraged to sign up to an online system that offers improve access to services.

Patients can book appointments with their GP or request a repeat prescription from their computer, smartphone or tablet. Users of the service can also read their own GP record and check the results of tests, before speaking to their GP.

The online service will run alongside traditional methods of accessing services - so patients who cannot access the service, or who do not want to join up, can still call or visit their surgery to book appointments and request repeat prescriptions as usual.

Dr Simon Rumley, chair and clinical lead for NHS Wyre Forest Clinical Commissioning Group, said: "Many of our patients tell us that they value the convenience of making an appointment at any time, day or night, or requesting a repeat prescription without having to visit their surgery.

"Freeing up the phone lines also makes it easier for patients who do not want to use GP online services to get through by phone.

"Having access to their GP records also means that people are in more control of their health and well-being. This is particularly helpful for people who are living with a long-term health condition such as diabetes that needs regular checking and frequent prescriptions."

Wyre Forest residents can register for the online service by visiting their GP surgery, or by visiting nhs.uk/GPonlineservices.