ACCESS to healthcare by minority-ethnic and low-income groups has been hit by the move to online GP consultations during the pandemic, the People’s Covid Inquiry has heard.

Dr Latifa Patel, vice-chairwoman of the British Medical Association, explained to the inquiry — organised by the Keep Our NHS Public campaign group in the absence of an official probe — how the move online had especially disadvantaged particular social groups.

Speaking in her personal capacity, Dr Patel said: “Where we [NHS staff] couldn’t get hold of mobile phone numbers, these patients were being prematurely discharged. We know that those on low incomes change their mobile number more often.”

Inability to access a decent internet connection or translation services under the “virtual” arrangements were among the factors that had a disproportionate effect on low-income and minority-ethnic groups, Dr Patel said.

And noting that not everyone had the space in their homes to receive consultations alone, she said: “Appointments are meant to be private, but patients were [attending them] in cars and in toilets […] Space is a privilege — the whole motto [Hands, Face, Space] was a privilege...”

The Inquiry has already heard evidence of how the Covid pandemic fatally compounded the combined effects that racism and unequal access to education, housing, employment and healthcare had already had on black and minority-ethnic people, resulting in higher illness and death rates among key workers keeping transport, health and other services going.

Front-line workers, unions, academics, campaign groups and others will continue to give evidence to the inquiry at fortnightly sessions up to June, after which a report and recommendations will be published.

An NHS spokesperson said: “General practice teams have continued to offer face-to-face appointments throughout the pandemic alongside telephone, video and online consultations.

“While there is ongoing demand for remote consultations, the NHS will continue to regularly review the process for accessing appointments so patients get timely and appropriate care depending on need and preference.”

The inquiry, including earlier sessions, can be accessed at peoplescovidinquiry.com