South west Londoners are being encouraged to download the latest version of the NHS app that will allow them to order repeat prescriptions and view their GP record in the time it takes to make a cup of tea.
More than 880,000 south west Londoners already use the NHS app, although many others are still not registered and are missing the opportunity to quickly access a range of healthcare services.
Monthly logins in south west London rose by 73% in the last year from 403,360 in February 2023 to 699,497 in February 2024.
The number of repeat prescriptions ordered through the app grew by 57% from 2022 to 2023, with an average of 43,000 now requested every month.
The NHS app has been updated to make it easier for people to access their information and services. People using the updated NHS app will find the homepage more streamlined, navigation simpler and the language clearer.
In the same time it takes to make a cup of tea, people can use the refreshed, user-friendly version of the NHS app to:
- request repeat prescriptions
- choose their usual pharmacy or collect from any pharmacy in England
- check if they need urgent medical help using 111 online
- view GP-held medical records, including medication, test results and immunisations
- register for organ donation and change your preferences.
- access NHS services on behalf of somebody else (for example, their children or other family members)
- find NHS services near them, such as dentists, pharmacies or mental health services
- view messages from for example their GP or about hospital appointments.
Dr John Byrne, south west London’s medical director, said: “The NHS app continues to be a simple and secure way to access a range of health services – in the time it takes to make a cup of tea.
“There are already more than 880,000 users in south west London and I’d urge people who haven’t already downloaded the app to find out for themselves how easy it is to use on their phone, tablet, computer or laptop at a time that suits them whether they’re at home or on the move.
“Whether it’s to view a GP health record, order and track a repeat prescription, or nominate a preferred pharmacy, the refreshed app hosts a range of features that enable patients to access key services at the touch of a button.”
To download the NHS app, visit your device’s app store and follow the easy step-by-step registration instructions.
It will help if you know your NHS number (although this is not essential), and you will need to have a form of ID (passport or driving licence) to hand.
The app is available for anybody over the age of 13 who is registered with a GP surgery in England.