Is it the norm for GPs to text test results?

[UncomfortableSilence]

So I luckily don't have much cause to go to the GP so don't know if this a new thing?

Had my smear a few weeks ago and Nurse said will receive the results in the post as normal.

This morning I got a text saying my smear is normal however I have thrush and to treat with OTC meds. As the text was short you could read it all on my front screen when it came and seen as I was at work it was visible to whoever was sitting with me, surely this isn't right or am I being a bit precious.

Well, I think a text is a step forward tbh. I wouldn't be happy with others being able to see it, however i have my phone set not to show messages on the lock screen.

I don't know if it's standard but I wish it was.

Sounds great to me, I'd do all my communicating via text if possible!!

I had a text earlier this year after a blood test. I was really pleased as I was at work and would have missed a phonecall. I think it's a great idea.

Yep totally normal and a very effective way of communicating with people

I think it's a cheaper, faster and more reliable contact method compared to Royal Mail.

I got a text about six months ago saying that my practice was starting to text results and to text back to opt out.

Yep, I’ve had a few results by test and thinks it’s a great innovation for the NHS. Much more efficient than previous system.

I’ve had texts from my doctors too. No quite like it but I’m not sure how I’m supposed to respond, if at all? I assume You’re not solider to text back but it feels rude not to!

Wish my surgery did this. They are so backwards they don't even do online appointments/repeat prescriptions. Everything has to be done via the receptionist.

You can opt out. It's not obligatory. It's so helpful to us on reception to be able to text certain things. We don't text test results but the GPs sometimes do if appropriate. Our family GP texted me recently about my sons blood test results.

I had to give consent to receiving results by text.

This is a great idea, wish my surgery did this.
You can change your messaging options in your phone so messages dont show up on your home screen, a way forward maybe.

Totally agree it's very convenient however I don't need people knowing I have thrush so think I will change my notification settings

I think thats a great idea. I have to ring my surgery to see if any test results are in (only allowed to do this between 2 and 4pm), then if they are in, the receptionist is allowed to tell me if they are all ok, but if they are not and something has flagged up, I have to then make an appointment with the doctor to see what the problem is.

We've had a text for the first time this week too! I wasn't sure what to do so I called back and said to let the doctor know that everything was fine with the message he'd sent

Our GP uses an app that lists meds, sends messages, allows you to check results, book appointments, order refills etc. They might send a text saying to check the app for results but they certainly wouldn’t send actual results by text.