HiCare

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about HiCare

General

What is HiCare?

HiCare is a healthcare platform that connects patients with trusted doctors, nurses, and carers for home visits. We bring professional healthcare services directly to your doorstep, making it easier to access quality care without leaving your home.

How does HiCare work?

Simply sign up, search for a healthcare provider near you, book an appointment at a time that suits you, and a qualified professional will visit your home. You can manage all your appointments, view medical records, and access prescriptions through your dashboard.

Is HiCare available in my area?

HiCare currently operates across London. We're expanding to more areas soon. Check our coverage areas page or contact us to see if we serve your location.

Is HiCare for emergencies?

No, HiCare is not for medical emergencies. If you have a medical emergency, please call 999 immediately. For non-emergency medical advice, call 111. HiCare is designed for routine consultations, follow-ups, and scheduled care.

Booking & Appointments

How do I book an appointment?

You can book an appointment by searching for a provider on our platform, selecting a date and time that works for you, and confirming your booking. The provider will receive a notification and can accept or decline your request.

Can I book for someone else?

Yes, you can book appointments on behalf of someone else. During the booking process, you'll be asked if the service is for yourself or another person. If booking for someone else, you'll need to upload a power of attorney document.

How far in advance can I book?

You can typically book appointments up to 30 days in advance, depending on provider availability. Some providers may offer same-day appointments if they have availability.

Can I cancel or reschedule my appointment?

Yes, you can cancel or reschedule appointments through your dashboard. Please note that cancellation policies may vary by provider, and fees may apply for last-minute cancellations.

What happens if a provider declines my booking?

If a provider declines your booking request, you'll be notified and can search for another available provider. We'll help you find an alternative that meets your needs.

Services & Providers

What types of healthcare providers are available?

HiCare offers access to GPs (General Practitioners), Nurses, Specialists, and Carers. Each provider is verified and qualified to provide their respective services.

How are providers verified?

All providers undergo a comprehensive verification process including ID checks, professional registration verification (GMC/NMC/HCPC), DBS checks, insurance verification, and qualification reviews. Only verified providers can offer services on our platform.

Can I see provider reviews and ratings?

Yes, you can view provider profiles which include ratings, reviews from previous patients, qualifications, experience, and specializations. This helps you make an informed decision when choosing a provider.

What services can I get at home?

Services include GP consultations, Nursing care, Specialist consultations, and Home care support.

Nursing Care: • *Clinical care:* Medication administration, Injections (intramuscular & subcutaneous), IV therapy administration, Catheter care, Stoma care, Wound care & dressings, PEG/NG feeding management, Monitoring long-term conditions, End-of-life/palliative care, Prescriptions, Vaccination, Venupuncture, and more. • *Monitoring:* Vital signs, Blood glucose testing, Blood sampling, Urine sampling, Observation and escalation, CPAP machine, Post discharge observation, and more. • *Supportive care:* Patient and family education, Rehabilitation, Occupational therapy, Medication reviews, Learning disabilities support, and more. • *Specialist care:* Palliative & hospice care, Dementia care, Post-hospital rehabilitation, Respiratory support, Incontinence nurse, and more.

Home Care Support (hourly, full day, or live-in 24h): • Personal care • Companionship • Housekeeping • Medication management • Meal preparation • Dementia and cognitive support • Hospital discharge support • Hospice care • Postoperative care

Specific services vary by provider and their specializations.

Pricing & Payments

How much does a home visit cost?

Pricing varies by provider and service type. Each provider sets their own rates, which are clearly displayed on their profile. You'll see the exact cost before confirming your booking. We also show average market prices for comparison.

When do I pay for my appointment?

Payment is typically processed when you confirm your booking. The exact payment timing may vary depending on the service and provider. You'll see payment details before finalizing your booking.

What payment methods are accepted?

We accept major credit and debit cards through our secure payment system. Payment processing is handled securely and in compliance with all financial regulations.

Can I get a refund if I cancel?

Refund policies depend on the timing of cancellation and the provider's terms. Generally, cancellations made well in advance are eligible for full refunds, while last-minute cancellations may incur fees. Check the specific terms when booking.

Medical Records & Documents

Can I access my medical records?

Yes, you can access your consultation reports, prescriptions, and other medical documents through your dashboard after each appointment. All records are stored securely and in compliance with GDPR regulations.

Can I download my prescriptions?

Yes, after your appointment, you can download prescriptions, consultation reports, medical invoices, and referral letters directly from your dashboard.

How are my medical records protected?

We take data security seriously. All medical records are encrypted, stored securely, and only accessible to you and the healthcare providers involved in your care. We comply with GDPR, CQC regulations, and clinical safety standards (DCB0129).

Can providers see my previous medical history?

Providers can only see information relevant to the appointments they're involved in. Your full medical history remains private unless you choose to share it with a specific provider.

Account & Profile

How do I update my profile information?

You can update your profile, address, contact information, and preferences through the Settings page in your dashboard. Changes are saved immediately.

What information do I need to provide?

We require basic information including your name, contact details, address for home visits, and next-of-kin contact information. You can also provide additional details about your home (pets, stairs, mobility constraints) to help providers prepare.

Can I change my account type?

Your account type (Patient or Provider) is set during initial registration and cannot be changed. If you need both types of accounts, you'll need to create separate accounts with different email addresses.

How do I delete my account?

To delete your account, please contact our support team. We'll guide you through the process and ensure all your data is handled in accordance with GDPR requirements.

For Providers

How do I become a provider on HiCare?

Sign up as a provider and complete our verification process. You'll need to provide professional qualifications, registration numbers, DBS certificate, insurance documents, and other required documentation. Once verified, you can start offering services.

How do I get paid?

Payments are processed securely through our platform. You'll receive payouts according to our payment schedule. Bank details are required during the verification process.

Can I set my own availability?

Yes, you have full control over your availability. You can set your working hours, days of availability, and manage your calendar through your provider dashboard.

What support is available for providers?

We provide onboarding videos, training materials, and ongoing support. You can contact our admin team through the platform for any questions or assistance.

Still have questions?

Can't find the answer you're looking for? Our support team is here to help.

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