This document summarizes a study that tested an online virtual consulting room (VCR) to facilitate communication between primary and secondary care physicians. The key findings were: 1) Thirteen of 22 local general practices agreed to access the VCR, with 58 GPs identified as potential users. Over half of GPs visited the VCR, with one-third demonstrating repeated use. 2) Usage data showed 177 total consultations over the study period, with the VCR accessed most on Wednesdays between 3-4pm. Gastroenterology was the most visited department. 3) A post-study questionnaire found that most GP users found the VCR easy to use and a good educational tool,

1. TeleMed and eHealth‘06 The Virtual Consulting Room: an intuitive solution to bridge the eternal divide between primary and secondary care. P. Berlingieri, E. Wood, T. Rayne, D. Norris, John Linehan, O. Epstein The Royal Free & University College Medical School University College London

3. The VcR homepage

4. A specialty homepage

6. Patient journeys module

7. Haematemesis & Melaena pathway

8. FAQ’s module

9. Helpdesk component

10. E-specific referral letter