Anima

You can submit an Anima request instead of calling or waiting for the 8am rush.

Anima is the new and fastest way to get the care you need. Anima is our new online service which helps you access the help and advice you need at the right time, in the right place, with the right person. 

To register, please click on the banner opposite.

• Easy and simple for patients to use.
• More ways for patients to request appointments.
• All multiple-choice questions and no lengthy free text or medical jargon
• Allow patients to track their request.
• Patients can be sent a link to the most appropriate appointment.
• Patients will receive a text message and/or email to update them with the progress of their request/concern.
• No need to discuss any medical condition over the phone or in a crowded waiting room. 

How it works

If you have a healthcare concern or need to contact the Practice for any medical reason, click on the Anima option on the website and follow the instructions. Fill out the online form, which asks multiple choice questions, like those a clinician would ask during an appointment. Anima requests are then reviewed and processed deciding on the right care for you. We aim to respond to every Anima request within two working days.

How to log in to Anima

Anima does require a login; however, you can use your NHS login if you have one already or use the NHS app.

The advantages of having a login allows the patient to check their request, see the status and allows us to send more confidential information in response if needed. Anima will also send you a text message and an email to tell you that we have responded so you can log in to see the response.

For patients without an email, our dedicated reception and administration team can create an account for you. Simply call into practice for this to be completed. This means, any telephone requests are processed by the practice in the same way an online request is.

What about my data?

Anima has been approved by NHS Digital to be used by your GP Practice and the other systems involved in your care. The NHS has a lengthy assurance process to make sure we meet the highest standards of safety and security. Your data is safe and is shared only with your GP Practice for the purposes of your direct care. Your data is stored and sent securely using industry best practices, and we only collect the data that is necessary to allow your GP Practice to provide you with care.

Is my Data Safe?

Some concerns have been raised regarding the misleading Anima Privacy Policy as this policy currently includes information regarding the website and the patient application.  Separate Privacy Policies will be issued soon.   

We have been reassured by Anima that their servers are based in the UK, all data is stored in the UK and encrypted both at rest and in transit.  All data will remain UK based as they expand the company as well.  Anima has been approved for use by the NHS and uses the same infrastructure as the NHS app.

The Privacy Policy does contain sections where it mentions disclosing information to other providers in different countries, but this is all related to users of the website, not the application.  The website is targeting general audiences who want to learn about them as a company, Practice Managers, GPs, other NHS members, overseas clinics, etc.  These sections of the Privacy Policy apply to practice details, for example the practice email address if it was entered it into their website requesting further information about their services.  The practice email address might then be forwarded onto another company for marketing purposes.  Anima have confirmed therefore this does not apply to patients as they will be using the application only.

Will patients with less symptoms be put to the bottom of the appointment list and not seen until days later?

No, but with 7,000 patients, clinical triage is imperative. All requests will be looked at by a Clinician and the level of care decided at that point. This means that patients will be seen at the right time and by the right person, meaning it may not be the same day.

How soon will I hear back?

We aim to respond to all medical queries the same day where possible, for less urgent requests this may be within two working days.

Administration responses will depend on the individual request.

You can check your request status by accessing your Anima dashboard.

What happens if I can’t access the internet or don’t feel confident using it?

Our reception team are always happy to help where possible. The receptionists are able to submit requests on your behalf.

Our Care Coordinator will help if you need your confidence boosting with using the system.

If internet access is the problem, we may be able to supply you with free data provided by the Data Bank. Just let us know where we can help.

Can I still use Anima if I don’t have a mobile phone?

Yes! During your sign-up process, we will ask for both a mobile phone number and an email address. This is so we can let you know when your Doctor has made a decision regarding the request you have submitted.

Don’t worry if you do not have a mobile phone, we will simply use your email address to notify you. If you don’t have an email address, we will telephone you on your landline.

I share my email address with my partner or relative, can we use the same account?

Ideally all patients will have their own email address, this helps with patient verification and ensures any information sent via the GP is secure.

However, one user can register and then add another user’s details as their dependant. This means the primary user will be able to submit an Anima request on behalf of their dependant.

Is there an App for Anima

Not at the moment, but Anima are hopeful it wont be long until there is an app available.

Why have GPs changed to Anima?

GP practices are experiencing significant strain with a declining number of GPs and an ever-increasing demand. Ensuring that patients are seen by the appropriate clinician in the right place at the right time means that patient care and user experience is improved. This is also reducing the pressure on practices, thus allowing GPs to spend their time where it is most needed, with their patients!

The idea behind a total digital triage is also to avoid the 8am rush, which has become a problem for many. This approach is supported and encouraged by NHS England, who have strongly advised all GP practices to consider this model.

Can I contact Anima directly?

Yes! You could send an email to Anima’s support team at support@animahealth.com if you encounter any troubles using the website.