Our practice is now using NHS App messaging to send many patient communications directly through the NHS App. This means that appointment invitations, reminders, health campaign messages and other practice communications may be delivered straight to the NHS App instead of by text message.
What does this mean for me?
If you use the NHS App
We strongly recommend enabling notifications on your device so that you are alerted when a new message arrives from the practice. Our practice has enabled a 60-minute fallback service. If an NHS App message remains unread after 60 minutes, it will automatically be sent to your registered mobile number by SMS (text message).
By enabling NHS App notifications, you can receive messages more quickly and help avoid delays in receiving important information.
If you do not use the NHS App
You do not need to do anything. Patients who do not have the NHS App, or who are not set up to receive NHS App messages, will continue to receive communications through our existing channels. You will not miss out on practice communications simply because you do not use the NHS App.
Why are we making this change?
The NHS App provides a secure and convenient way to receive messages from us in one place. It also helps the NHS reduce the costs associated with sending large volumes of text messages, allowing resources to be directed towards patient care.
IMPORTANT: Turn on NHS App notifications
To make sure you do not miss messages from us, we strongly recommend enabling notifications for the NHS App on your smartphone or tablet. If notifications are switched on, you will receive an alert when a new message arrives, helping you read important information promptly.
What happens if I don’t read an NHS App message?
To help ensure important communications reach you, our practice has enabled a 60‑minute fallback service. If a message sent to your NHS App remains unread after 60 minutes, it will automatically be delivered to your registered mobile number by SMS (text message).
This means you should still receive urgent or time-sensitive communications even if you have not opened the NHS App.
How do I get the NHS App?
The NHS App is free to download from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Once registered, you can use it to:
– View messages from your GP practice
– Order repeat prescriptions
– View parts of your GP health record
– Manage appointments
– Access a range of NHS services online
We encourage all patients who are able to do so to download the NHS App and enable notifications to help ensure they receive important practice communications as quickly as possible.