The NHS app will receive a major update allowing all patients to receive test results, book follow-up appointments and even choose where to receive treatment.
The reform is part of the government’s plan to reduce waiting lists and waiting times, and will “give working-class patients the same choice, management and convenience that the wealthy receive,” the Health and Social Care Secretary said. . Wes Streeting saying.
Patients have the legal right to choose their provider for treatments, but less than a quarter remember being offered the choice, the Department of Health said.
Under the new measures, patients will be offered a wider choice of providers and the app will help facilitate the booking process, he added.
Patients requiring elective, non-emergency treatments will be able to use the app to view and manage their appointments, choose between providers – including those in the independent sector – and book diagnostic tests.
They will also be able to receive test results and choose the next step in their care, with options ranging from remote consultations to surgery, when appropriate.
Currently, only 8% of reservations after a recommendation are made through the National Health Service app or the Handle Your Referral website, but these online services will become the default route for patients to choose their care provider under the new proposals.
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The first step in the digital overhaul will be completed by March 2025, when patients in more than 85% of acute trusts will be able to see details of their appointments through the NHS app, the government said.
They will also be able to contact their provider and receive updates, including how long they will likely have to wait for treatment.
The proposals are part of the elective reform plan, which will set out how the government plans to cut waiting lists and reduce waiting times to 18 weeks by the end of this parliament.
The full turnaround plan will be released this week.
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Streeting said: “If the rich can choose where and when they receive treatment, then working class patients should be able to too, and this Government will give them that choice.
“Our plan will reform the NHS, so that patients are fully informed at every step of their care, have the right option to go to a different provider for a shorter wait and are in control of their own healthcare.”
The Conservatives said Labor has only made “partial announcements” for NHS reform.
“The Conservatives laid the foundations for greater patient choice, launching and revolutionizing the NHS app to help transform services, treatments and patient access, so it is positive to see the Labor Party building on our strong bases,” said the Secretary of Health and Social Assistance, Ed. Argar said.
“We will work with the government to support reform across all our public services when they present a clear and comprehensive plan, but sadly so far all Labor has done is partial announcements and even more reviews and consultations despite being in opposition for 14 years.” to work. discover what they really wanted to do.
“Labour promised reform; Now patients are clear: it is time for them to comply.”
Wes Streeting will appear on Sunday Morning with Trevor Phillips – watch on Sky Information from 8.30am
