Digital Help for Patients in West Dorset

 

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Empowering Your Health through Digital Journey

Digital literacy is essential for managing your health effectively. This page provides information on the digital services available to you, helping you navigate online tools for medical needs, communication, and assistive technology.

 

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Useful Links

NHS App

Blood Pressure Readings at Home

 

What is Digital Literacy?

Digital literacy refers to the ability to effectively and safely use digital tools and technologies to manage your health, access services, and stay connected. It's about empowering you to navigate the digital world with confidence.

Your Medical Journey

  • Order Repeat Prescriptions: Easily order your medications online and select your preferred pharmacy.
  • Access Your Medical Record: View your medical history and health information securely online.
  • Initiate Online Consultations: Use eConsult for non-urgent medical advice without leaving your home.
  • Help Someone Else Online: Support others by using apps on their behalf with linked profiles (proxy access).

Other Non-clinical Needs

  • Online Banking: Manage your finances securely from the comfort of your home.
  • Shop Online: Purchase groceries, clothing, and more with ease and confidence.
  • Communicate Online: Stay in touch with your surgery, friends, and family via SMS, email, or video calls.
  • Watch Videos Online: Access educational and entertainment content whenever you like.
  • Use Online News: Stay informed with reliable and up-to-date health news sources.
  • Find Advice and Support: Use search engines and directories to discover local groups and community events.
 

Do You Need Equipment?

Access to devices and get online.

  • Donate IT: Receive refurbished laptops and phones through donation stations at surgeries. For more information, contact the Social Prescribing Team at jcsocialprescribing@dorsetgp.nhs.uk.
  • Affordable Broadband: Access 'social tariffs' for internet services if you're on benefits. Visit Affordable Broadband for details.
  • Digital Doorway: Get a laptop, tablet, or data to help you get online.
 

Assistive Technology at Home

Technology to Support Your Independence

  • Technology Enabled Care (TEC) Lounge: Visit the TEC Lounge in Dorchester to try out digital gadgets in a simulated home setting for free. Get personalised assistance with installation and find the tools that work best for you. Contact 01305 221016 or visit TEC Lounges.
 

Volunteer Digital Champions

Get personalised tech support.

  • Volunteer Digital Champions: Book a session for one-on-one tech support by calling the hotline at 01305 221048.
 

Digital Care Coordinator

Your guide to digital health tools and resources.

  • Digital Care Coordinator: A member of the Social Prescribing team, the coordinator can direct you to digital tools and organizations that support your health and well-being. Contact Social Prescribing at 01308 428943.
 

Learn at Home

Free resources for improving your digital skills.

  • Ability Net: Free tech support and information for disabled and older people. Contact the Tech Volunteers Support Service at 0300 180 0028.
  • Good Things Foundation: Access various online health services. Visit Managing Your Health Online.
  • Digital Skills Directory: A resource for Dorset Council residents. Visit Digital Skills Directory.
  • Digital Eagles Platform: Step-by-step guides to improve your digital skills. Visit Digital Eagles.
  • Age UK: Online essentials training videos. Visit Age UK - Technology & Internet.
 

Health App Finder

Discover the right Apps for your needs.

  • ORCHA Health App Finder: ORCHA tests and recommends health apps that meet people’s health and well-being needs. Find the right app for you at Our Dorset ORCHA.