Anima is an online triage and communication system that allows you to submit medical or administrative requests to your GP practice. It integrates securely with your medical record and helps staff assess your needs more effectively.
At 168 Medical Group, we are committed to improving how you access our care. Several years ago, askmyGP was a major step forward, giving patients an online route alongside telephone and in‑person requests.
We are now moving to a more advanced system.
What’s Changing?
From 29 April 2026, we will move from askmyGP to Anima for all medical and administrative requests.
This webpage will be the main place for all updates, information and support about the change.
We encourage patients to check here regularly for instructions, FAQs and guidance as we approach the transition date.
Why Are We Moving to Anima?
1. Better information = better decisions
Anima asks for more structured detail about your request.
We know this may take a little longer to submit—but it means our team can understand your needs more clearly and make quicker, safer, and more accurate decisions.
This is supported by other practices adopting Anima, which highlight improved triage and faster, more equitable access to care.
2. No account required
Unlike askmyGP, you do not need to create an account to submit a request. This makes it easier and faster to get help when you need it.
3. Modern, NHS‑approved system
Anima is NHS‑approved and meets high data‑security standards, used by over a million patients across the UK.
4. Fairer access based on need—not on calling early
Multiple practices report that Anima helps eliminate the “8am rush”, allowing all requests to be prioritised by clinical urgency rather than by time of day.
Telephone and in-person help will still be available - our reception team can enter an Anima request on your behalf.
What is Anima?
Anima is an online triage and communication system that allows you to submit medical or administrative requests to your GP practice. It integrates securely with your medical record and helps staff assess your needs more effectively.
Why are you changing from askmyGP?
Many practices report that Anima improves access, supports safe triage, and reduces pressure on phone lines. It helps practices ensure patients are seen by the right person at the right time, and supports NHS England’s guidance for digital triage systems.
Do I need an account to use Anima?
No. Patients can submit a request without creating an account or logging in—one of the benefits compared to askmyGP.
What can I use Anima for?
Asking about any new medical concerns / symptoms and for any administrative queries.
What happens after I submit a request?
A clinician reviews it—usually on the same day. They decide the safest and most appropriate next step (appointment, advice, referral, etc.) and you will be contacted by phone, SMS or email depending on urgency.
Can I still phone or visit the surgery?
Yes. You can still call in or come to the practice. Staff can submit the request for you using Anima. This ensures that all requests are triaged fairly using the same process.
What if I can’t access the internet?
Our friendly and helpful team can help by submitting your information for you. Practices using Anima report this is a common and fully supported option.
Will I get an appointment straight away?
Not necessarily. Requests are triaged first to prioritise based on clinical need—this avoids all appointments being booked instantly at 8am, and ensures those who most need help receive it fastest.
Does Anima protect my data?
Yes. Anima is NHS‑approved and meets strict NHS data‑security standards. It collects only the information required to provide care, under formal agreements with practices.
Can I upload photos or documents?
Yes. Anima supports adding photos when they are helpful for clinical assessment.