Tesco’s virtual GP service has seen a total of 14,729 colleagues registered in its first year and an average of 98% of staff offered an appointment within 24 hours.

The service, which offers speedy online or phone call appointments with a GP seven days a week for colleagues and their families, was first launched in July 2023.

Since then, a total of 13,724 appointments were made by the supermarket giant’s employees and their families, with the top three categories covering respiratory issues, ear, nose and throat complaints or problems with muscles, bones and joints.

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Over the first six months of this year, an average of 98% of colleagues were offered an appointment within 24 hours, and in February, this figure peaked at 99%.

The latest report on the service also found that 8% of prescriptions issued by the virtual doctors have been for the children of Tesco colleagues and in the last quarter, it was most popular with employees in the age group of 18 to 39.

Tesco UK people director James Goodman said: “We have been delighted with the very positive reaction from colleagues to the new virtual GP service. We are seeing usage levels at four times our original target.

“Colleagues love the fact that they can get an appointment with a GP really quickly and get on with their life. We are also supporting colleagues with their emotional and physical wellbeing.

“Our investment in the health of our colleagues allows them to be at their best to continue to provide brilliant service for our customers.”