Working with Libraries to help people use the NHS App & NHS Account: GP resource pack

Since October 2024, a partnership between NHS England, and public libraries has been successfully helping patients access their health information more easily and confidently through trusted local support. Libraries offer a safe, warm place for everyone to access secure, reliable internet and computers.

Public libraries are supporting people to access their NHS account via the NHS website or NHS App to address digital inclusion barriers that have prevented some of your patients from ordering repeat prescriptions online, using online triage forms and engaging with their care. This has worked best when libraries and GP surgeries work together to support vulnerable populations who struggle to create an NHS login and use digital health services.

GP practices that use the NHS App have fewer phone calls as patients can:

• see their test results online
• receive appointment reminders with cancellation options which helps to reduce DNAs
• manage medications and appointments on behalf of someone they care for

Patients using the NHS App:

• receive improved communication from their doctors and practices
• are empowered to manage their health and care
• can view and reorder their repeat prescriptions, and see when they have been issued
• receive messages from their practice more securely than SMS

Click HERE for access to the GP resource pack and other online resources.