Frequently Asked Questions – Patient Experience

How do patients use Opto?

Patients complete triage on a managed tablet device in the department or on their own device via a secure QR code. The interface uses plain language and step-by-step questioning to minimise cognitive load and improve completion rates.

What if a patient cannot self-complete?

Staff (reception, nursing, volunteers) assist the patient to complete the same Opto triage. There is no separate manual pathway—this preserves a single source of structured input for all patients.

How long does triage take?

Typically 3–5 minutes, depending on complexity. Branching logic ensures patients are only asked relevant questions.

What information is captured?

• Presenting complaint and symptom detail
• Pain score and mechanism of injury
• Red flags (e.g. sepsis, stroke indicators) and safeguarding prompts
• Accessibility/communication needs (including Reasonable Adjustments)
• Basic demographics from the NHS Spine (where required for identification)
• Full ECDS question set

How is accessibility supported?

• Simple language and guided flow
• Staff-assisted completion
• Visibility of Reasonable Adjustments from Spine
• Configurable prompts for communication needs

What about languages?

Opto will be available in English on go-live. By the end of the summer, Opto will be available in the following languages :

• Bulgarian
• Romanian
• Lithuanian
• Polish.