Like most people I get it, no I really do. The NHS is overburdened and dangerously flawed. Money wasted left right and centre by top-heavy management and too many people needing help.

Trying to get a non-urgent appointment often results in weeks of waiting and even emergency consultations are hard to get. Often one has to take time off work, venture out in bad weather or wait until the end of surgery just to get seen. Many appointments are taken up by repeat visits by folk with little or nothing wrong. Paracetamol, rest and a change in diet usually cures the ailment.

So what about online?

At present one would have to sign off from a NHS GP’s list in order to join the online one. This seems logical but what happens if one needs a physical examination or treatment other than a printable, online prescription? Visiting the local GP is not an option as one is no longer registered.

So the answer could be to have your local GP’s surgery offer this same online service. Maybe a triage nurse could evaluate one’s symptoms and if required pass you over to a Doctor. If is is something less sinister then other advice could be given.

This system could also be used for A&E prior to visiting. If its a minor problem then ask to visit their GP or there will be a cost at the hospital. It may even be suitable for the ambulance service.

I am not saying to turn people away who need treatment but many can be treated at home, over the phone or with a simple visit to the pharmacy.

This in turn may cost to set up and require training and different attitudes but in no time at all it could save more lives and cost far less.

So many are connected to the internet today via phone, tablet, laptop or computer and so a quick online question can be done anywhere.

For the more hands on treatments or in depth investigations then a visit to the surgery or hospital could be arranged.

As technology improves society and methods should change to keep up as at present our health and safety is being compromised by a failing system on the verge of collapse.