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Providing NHS Services
MedLink
Introducing MedLink for long-term condition reviews and medication monitoring
Birdhurst Medical Practice has begun using a new system called MedLink to support some long-term condition reviews and repeat medication monitoring. This is part of our commitment to making routine care:
- Simpler
- Safer
- More convenient for patients
It also helps ensure important reviews and monitoring are completed on time.
What is MedLink?
MedLink is a secure system that helps us manage reviews and monitoring for people with long-term health conditions and those taking medicines that need regular checks. It allows us to contact patients when a review, blood test or other check is due and gather the right information in advance. This means your care can be:
- More organised
- More timely
- More personalised
- Easier to complete
If you are invited to use MedLink, you may receive a message by text, email, or automated voice call, depending on the contact details we hold for you. If you need to book an appointment (for example, a blood test), you may receive a personalised self-booking link so you can choose a suitable date and time without needing to telephone the practice. You may also receive reminders if actions have not yet been completed.
How it works
If you are due a review or monitoring check, MedLink may ask you to complete a questionnaire about:
- Your condition
- Your symptoms
- Your medication or treatment
- Any blood tests or monitoring that may be due
- Any concerns you have about your health or medication
This gives our clinical team useful information before deciding on the next step. For some patients, this means a quicker and more straightforward review. For others, it helps us identify when extra support, medication changes or further tests may be needed.
Why this is good for patients
- More convenient – Complete reviews at home using your phone, tablet or computer
- More timely care – Helps ensure reviews, tests and checks are not missed
- Better use of appointments – Allows us to prioritise patients who need more support
- More joined-up reviews – Especially helpful if you have more than one long-term condition
- Safer prescribing – Ensures monitoring is completed so medicines remain safe and effective
Why it is important to respond
If you receive a MedLink request, it is important that you respond. This helps us to:
- Keep your condition reviews up to date
- Make sure important tests are not missed
- Identify early if treatment changes are needed
- Reduce delays caused by missing information
- Review and reauthorise your medication safely
Even if you feel well, it is still important to complete your review.
Some checks are needed to ensure your treatment remains safe and effective.
Common questions
Will this replace my care with a clinician?
No. MedLink supports the process, but all care remains led by a GP, nurse or pharmacist.
Will I still need appointments?
Sometimes. You may still need blood tests, physical checks, or follow-up appointments depending on your needs.
What if I am not confident using online services?
We encourage you to try, but if you need support or an alternative, we will help you.
Why am I receiving automated messages?
These help ensure you are contacted promptly when checks are due. Your care is still overseen by our clinical team.
Is my information secure?
Yes. MedLink meets strict data security standards, including Cyber Essentials Plus and ISO 27001 certification. The practice has completed a Data Protection Impact Assessment and will update its Privacy Notice.
What you need to do
- Make sure we have your current mobile number and email address
- Update your details if they have changed
- Respond promptly to any MedLink invitations
- Contact the practice if you need help using the system
If you need support, please contact the practice.