The Tutbury Practice operates a Total Triage System for appointment requests. Instead of booking directly into a GP appointment slot, patients submit details of their issue through an online triage form. A clinician then reviews the information and directs the patient to the most appropriate healthcare professional or service.
The system is designed to:
- Ensure patients receive care from the most suitable clinician.
- Help manage demand and appointment capacity.
- Reduce the traditional “8am rush” for appointments.
- Allow requests to be submitted throughout the practice opening hours.
When Can I Submit a Request?
You can use the triage system to contact the practice at any time however, requests made after 6:30 will be dealt with the next working day.
Step 1: Visit the Practice Website
On the home page, scroll to the four action buttons:
- I want to book an appointment
- I want to order repeat medication
- I have an admin request
- You’re closed, what do I do
Click on the action button which best meets your current needs. Read the information and if you are happy to continue, click the green ‘Start Now’ button.
Step 2: Choose the Correct Request Type
e.g. For a health problem, select: I have a health problem
For non-medical matters, choose ‘I have an Admin or routine care request’ instead. This option can be used for:
- Sick notes (fit notes)
- Doctor’s letters
- Referral updates
- Repeat prescription requests
- Test result enquiries
- Other administrative requests
Step 3: Complete the Medical Form
Provide as much information as possible about your condition.
You may be asked to include:
- A description of your medical problem
- How long you have had symptoms
- Whether symptoms are improving or worsening
- Any particular concerns or worries
- How you would like the practice to help
- Times when you are unavailable to be contacted
- Up to five photographs if relevant to your condition
Tip: Detailed information helps the clinician assess your needs and direct you appropriately.
Step 4: Emergency Screening
During the process, the system checks whether you have symptoms that require urgent attention.
If you indicate certain serious symptoms, you may be advised to contact:
- NHS 111 for urgent medical advice
- 999 for a medical emergency
Step 5: Enter Your Personal Details
You will need to provide information such as:
- Name
- Contact details
- Date of birth and other identifying information
This allows the practice to match the request with your medical record.
Step 6: Verify Your Identity (Recommended)
If you provide a valid UK mobile number, you can choose to receive a verification code by text message. This is optional.
Benefits of verification:
- Helps the practice match your request to your record more quickly.
- May reduce delays in processing your request.
If you skip verification, your request can still be submitted, but staff may need additional time to identify your record manually.
Step 7: Submit the Request
Before submitting, confirm:
- The request is being sent to the correct practice.
- All information is accurate.
- Your personal details are correct.
- Your preferred contact method (text or phone).
Then click:
“Submit Request”
A confirmation page will appear once the request has been successfully submitted.
What Happens Next?
A clinician reviews the information provided and decides the most appropriate action. This may include:
- A GP appointment
- Contact from another healthcare professional
- Referral to a more suitable NHS service
- Advice without requiring a face-to-face GP consultation.
Not every request requires a GP appointment, and another clinician may be better placed to help with your specific issue. [
If You Cannot Complete the Online Form
The practice recognises that some patients may need support.
You can:
- Ask a family member or friend to complete the form on your behalf.
- Telephone the practice.
Key Benefits of the Triage System
✅ Requests can be submitted throughout the day rather than competing at 8am.
✅ Patients are directed to the most appropriate service.
✅ Clinicians receive detailed information before making contact.
✅ Helps ensure appointments are used effectively.
✅ Supports quicker identification of urgent needs.