People across Birmingham, the Black Country and Solihull are being urged to download the free NHS App this winter to help them manage their health and access NHS services more easily during one of the busiest times of the year.
With winter demand rising, the NHS App offers a fast, convenient alternative to calling or visiting your GP practice for everyday tasks. However, uptake of the NHS App in the area remains below the national average.
Among those registered with a GP practice and aged 13 or over – only 57% of people in the Black Country and 59% in Birmingham and Solihull have downloaded the NHS App, compared with 71% nationally.
The NHS is encouraging more local people to join the millions already benefiting from its features, which include:
- Ordering repeat prescriptions to your chosen pharmacy.
- Booking and managing appointments
- Viewing your GP health record to see information like your allergies and medicines (including test results where available)
- Booking and managing COVID-19 vaccinations
- Access to NHS 111 online to answer questions and get instant advice or medical help near you.
Dr Mona Sidhu, local GP and Medical Director, Black Country ICB, said: “The NHS App is a simple and secure way for people to take control of their health, all at the click of a button.
“This winter, when NHS services are often busier, the app can save you time and help you get the care you need faster – from ordering repeat prescriptions and viewing test results to checking symptoms and finding reliable advice.
“If you haven’t already, I’d really encourage anyone with a smartphone or tablet to download the app today. It’s free, secure, and designed to make managing your health easier.”
Dr Aftab Arif, a GP in Birmingham, said: "We've heard directly from patients that the NHS App is more convenient and accessible for them, supporting them to be proactive in managing their own health.
“It's easy to download, easy to use and easy to see exactly what you need to look after yourself. It gives you speedy access to things like test results, repeat prescriptions and more, avoiding the need to wait on the phone while our lines are busy. We would encourage all patients, regardless of their technological knowhow, to get the app today via their usual app store."
For those without a smartphone or tablet, the same services can be accessed using your NHS login on a computer or laptop at www.
The NHS App is free to download from the App Store or Google Play. It will never ask for payment or financial details. To use it, you must be registered with a GP practice in England and aged 13 or over.
This winter, let the NHS App help you stay well, stay informed, and stay connected with your healthcare.
For more advice and information go to: NHS App: Black Country ICB.
