NHS App introduces family access feature
The NHS App has introduced a family access feature, enabling users to add other profiles to their app account to manage the health needs of relatives they are caring for who are registered at the same GP practice.
Verification checks are done through national NHS systems and via the GP practice before access is granted. Once enabled, a user can switch between their own and a relative’s profile, enabling them to book GP appointments, order repeat prescriptions or access medical information like care plans for a person they care for (where this has been approved by the GP practice).
The family access feature is currently being piloted in 68 GP practices, with almost 12,000 people already signed up to this service. The NHS plans to extend this feature of their app more widely from next year.
Dr Vin Diwakar, Clinical Transformation Director at NHS England, says:
“The family access feature in the NHS App makes it much easier for parents and carers to support the health of their loved ones – and it’s as simple as switching Netflix profiles. It’s also hugely beneficial for GP practices, reducing the time staff spent on admin and freeing up resources, as well as improving efficiency and coordination of care.”
Find out more about the NHS app here: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-app/