Group consultations are an effective, efficient and safe environment where people can address their health and wellbeing needs by gaining mutual support from others with similar health or care issues.
People can talk about their shared concerns and learn how to keep well and self-manage their health and wellbeing.
Group consultations are available using Near Me. It is an effective and efficient way for services to meet peoples needs. Many services are now offering Near Me Groups as an alternative to in person groups.
Group Waiting Areas can be easily created so people can attend group sessions using the same process as one to one calls.
Callers enter their full name in the usual caller entry screen, but to protect their privacy, only their initials are seen by other callers. The service provider still sees the full name.
Up to 30 callers can be viewed at the same time on screen. The recommended maximum number of participants is 60.
Providers can select who to admit, share their screen, mute participants and, if necessary, remove people from the call.
A chat function is available which can be turned on or off. Providers can display the full names of callers with their consent. Breakout rooms can be created in the Group.
Here is a leaflet you can download and share with colleagues about Near Me Groups.
Information on how to set up a Group Waiting Area can be found here.
Quick Start Process Document to give an overview of the basics.
Guidance for Near Me Video Groups to help with scheduling and running Near Me Groups.
Test Call Checklist to help with getting group participants connected prior to the group starting.
Provider and Caller Guides to provide the basics.
To find out more and view webinars featuring practitioners speaking about using Near Me Groups visit Group Consultations
Contact the Near Me team at nss.nearme@nhs.scot