GP Appointments Data (GPAD) is a nationwide initiative that standardises how GP appointments are categorised and recorded across practices. By aligning slot types to national categories, data can be analysed more reliably for workforce planning, policy development, and improved patient care.
Why is this useful?
Making sure local appointment data matches national categories can help identify pressure points and ensure timely patient care. It also assists in highlighting the real demand for different kinds of slots, such as telephone or video visits.
Mapping slot types to national categories
To map or change a slot type:
- Go to EMIS Web menu > Appointments > Appointment Book.
- Click Appts Config, then choose National Slot Mapping.
- Select the slot type(s) and set the relevant Service Setting, Context Type, and National Slot Category.
- Click OK to save.
Slot statuses and new options
New modes such as Telephone/Audio and Written (Including Online) can be assigned to capture how appointments took place. This ensures more accurate reporting when reviewing utilisation through the GP Workload Tool.
Exception reporting
When appointments are scheduled more than two weeks ahead due to patient preference or clinical need, you can record exception reasons. This improves the accuracy of national metrics and prevents practices from being penalised for longer intervals requested by patients themselves.