NHS App: manage your health at your fingertips

Digital tools provide a massive step forward for healthcare, and the NHS App is a great example of this. I encourage all patients to make use of the App because it gives everyone quicker access to healthcare information and services. I cannot overstate how important the NHS App is for both patients, and the NHS itself. 

What’s great about the NHS App

View your GP record and notes – see what your doctor has written after every visit  Book, cancel and manage appointments 24/7  Order repeat prescriptions and generate barcodes for medicine collection   Check test results, such as blood tests, instantly without phoning the practice   Access hospital referrals and outpatient info via Patients Know Best

Note: some functions on the NHS App can vary depending on what your GP surgery has ‘switched on’. These functions change over time, so it’s always worthwhile checking the App for the latest functions.  

Get more by turning on notifications

One simple step that anyone using the NHS App can do is turn on their notifications. This means you would receive messages from your GP practice via the App rather than via SMS text message. This simple switch not only saves money, but is also:  

• safer
• more secure, and;  
• more reliable. 

Over £500,000 could also be saved each year for the local NHS, if practices and patients switch to NHS App messaging and email. This will help the local NHS save vital funds, which can be used to support other services.

Learn how to turn on your notifications by watching the short video tutorial, here

Need help using digital tools? 

We know some people might not be as tech savvy as others. People can still access healthcare support through phone calls and in-person visits. However, if you want help using the digital tools that are available, free support is available:  

• Free support in Essex libraries – drop in for one-to-one digital support → Find your nearest library 
• Access community support – across mid and south Essex ready to assist with the NHS App → Get local help 
• Ask your GP team any questions – they are there to support you.