Teenagers and parents will soon be able to text experienced school nurses and health visitors for support and advice.
Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust has developed the texting service to encourage earlier contact with health professionals and will not replace face-to-face appointments.
The Trust’s health visitors will respond on the same or next working day to parents of 0-4 year olds who contact Oxfordshire ParentLine seeking reassurance or information on health-related issues.
Parents and carers with children aged 5-11 will be able to text Oxford Health’s school nurses for advice on a separate number.
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Meanwhile, young people aged 11-19 will have the chance to hold confidential text discussions with school nurses using the Oxford Health’s ChatHealth text number – and agree an appointment time to see their school nurse when that’s appropriate.
The services will be available from February 14.
The ChatHealth service, first developed by Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust, has already proven popular with parents and young people in other areas.
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Nicola Taylor, service manager for Oxford Health’s Children’s Preventative Care Services, said: “Many young people feel more comfortable talking about sensitive issues through mobile technology rather than in a face-to-face discussion with a school nurse.
“Meanwhile, busy parents – especially those who are working – value the convenience of the messaging service and getting advice, information or reassurance quickly.
“We are really excited about some of the results that ChatHealth services have achieved elsewhere and we’re confident it will have the same positive impact in Oxfordshire.”
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