Patients in England will gain direct access to specialist care through the NHS app, potentially freeing up 500,000 hospital appointments annually and reducing healthcare pressure.
- The National Health Service is launching 45 pilot schemes across 37 trusts in England to enable direct specialist access via the NHS app.
- Patients will be able to self-report vital health data, including blood pressure and oxygen levels, significantly easing the burden on hospitals.
- This initiative aims to revolutionize patient care in fields like Otorhinolaryngology, Pulmonology, Gastroenterology, and Urology, enhancing efficiency in healthcare delivery.
Why It Matters
This initiative reflects a significant shift towards digital healthcare solutions, emphasizing patient empowerment and potentially alleviating hospital congestion, which is crucial for improving overall healthcare efficiency in England.