A new NHS App will be released by the UK government in a bid to improve access to healthcare, with a particular focus on reducing waiting times. The move has been described as an “elective reform plan” aimed at speeding up planned treatment for particular patients. At present, fewer than six in ten patients are seen within 18 weeks of a referral, and the aim is to increase this figure to nine in ten by the end of the current parliamentary term.The new app will allow patients to choose from a range of providers for non-emergency elective treatment, including those in the private sector. It will also provide reminders that may reduce the number of appointments missed.
Although some of the features of the app are already available through NHS services, officials claim that only 8% of bookings are made through existing platforms.The plan, which includes an artificial intelligence pilot to help improve attendance, has been welcomed by many, although there are concerns that patients who are not comfortable using digital technology may be marginalized.
There are also concerns that the move toward a digital framework could lead to a third tier of healthcare that may be inaccessible to some people, creating a further divide between those who can and cannot pay for healthcare. The government has stated that the new app will “put patients in the driving seat” of their own healthcare. However, some commentators have suggested that further investment and reform are required if the NHS is to fully achieve its waiting list reduction targets, and to improve overall healthcare provision.
Other elements of the plan include an expansion of the Advice and Guidance Scheme for GPs to discuss some cases with specialists before making referrals to ensure patients are treated in the appropriate setting. GPs will also be able to refer patients with certain conditions directly for tests or scans without needing to see a consultant first
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