As an entrepreneur with a diverse background spanning across retail, manufacturing, e-commerce, and tech academies, I’ve encountered my fair share of challenges and inefficiencies. However, one particular issue close to my heart, and an area I felt deeply passionate about transforming, is the healthcare sector – specifically, the traditional model of GP appointments in the UK.

We’ve all been there – the dreaded 8am rush to secure a GP appointment. This archaic system not only creates stress for patients but also puts unnecessary strain on GP surgeries. It’s a race against the clock, where luck often seems more crucial than the actual need for medical attention. In an age where we can track parcels from China with pinpoint accuracy and know precisely when our delivery driver is three stops away, it seemed absurd that GP services were lagging so far behind.

This frustration led to the formation of GP Triage, a venture born out of the need to apply innovative, tech-driven solutions to healthcare. The advent of Generative AI and the support of tools like Microsoft Healthbot, backed by Microsoft’s $1 Billion investment, opened new doors. These advancements made it possible to offer patients a choice over when an appointment is convenient for them, seamlessly integrated into their GP’s diary of available slots.

My journey across various industries equipped me with a unique perspective. I could listen to the frustrations within the health sector while being naive enough as an outsider to advocate for bold, audacious solutions. This fresh perspective was crucial in rethinking how GP appointments could be more patient-centric.

Moreover, this mission is personal to me. With family members working in the NHS, I’ve witnessed first-hand their dedication and the systemic challenges they face. During the COVID-19 pandemic, our efforts in manufacturing and donating PPE as part of the UK’s largest volunteer-led campaign further highlighted the glaring lack of tech adoption in the NHS. It was eye-opening to see how this gap in digital transformation was holding back efficiency and better patient outcomes.

At GP Triage, we’re not just building a product; we’re on a mission to transform how patients interact with healthcare services. We believe that seeing your doctor should be as convenient as possible, fitting into the patient’s life rather than dictating it. Our solution is designed to prioritise patient needs, ensuring that getting medical attention is no longer a game of chance but a seamless, stress-free experience.

Our journey is just beginning, but our commitment is unwavering. We’re dedicated to breaking down the barriers in healthcare accessibility and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in patient care. The GP Triage mission is more than a business venture; it’s a personal crusade to improve healthcare for everyone involved – from the hardworking staff at GP surgeries to the patients in need of care.

As we move forward with GP Triage, we’re not just implementing a new system; we’re spearheading a movement towards a more efficient, patient-focused healthcare experience. It’s about time the healthcare sector caught up with the digital age, and we’re here to make that happen.