The system offers the opportunity for GPs to seek advice via an electronic “conversation” with a hospital consultant on a patient where they have a query.

Figures released covering the last financial year between April 2015 and March 2016 show that of the 1,919 “conversations” begun by GPs to specialists (that would have previously been a direct referral to hospital for an outpatient appointment.)

655 (34%) patients were managed under the care of the GP with advice from a specialist.