New GP catchment checker tool

A new software tool has been designed to help GP practices quickly establish whether a patient is eligible to join its list.

Catchment Check uses data mapping technology to determine where a patient lives in relation to the GP practice they wish to join. Staff can enter the patient’s postcode, which will show them their location on the map and whether it’s within the practice’s catchment.

Developed by data mapping company Parallel, who are responsible for the Department of Health & Social Care-backed data analysis tool SHAPE, the tool offers a simple and cost effective way for practices to manage their patient lists.

Giles Billingsley, SHAPE’s Senior Developer, said: “Catchment Check is available to all GP practices across England and offers them a much more efficient approach to informing new patients whether they can join their list or not.

“We’ve identified a need for this service within the NHS as a previous tool was discontinued.

“GP practice staff may have access to postcode, location or address information on a sheet, or use local knowledge, but this is a much quicker, efficient and cost effective way of working.”

For more infomation on Catchment Check, and to book demo, email help@shapeatlas.net