How to use the NHS App to manage your health
Learn how to set up and use the NHS App to book GP appointments, order repeat prescriptions, view your health records, and access NHS services from your phone.
What you will learn
In this guide, you will learn how to set up the NHS App on your phone and use it to manage your healthcare. The NHS App lets you book and cancel GP appointments, order repeat prescriptions, view your medical records, and access other NHS services without making phone calls or visiting the surgery in person.
What you need
- An iPhone or Android phone
- An email address
- Your GP surgery must be in England and connected to the NHS App
- A form of photo ID for identity verification (passport, driving licence, or European national identity card)
The steps
Step 1: Download the NHS App
Open the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play Store (Android) and search for NHS App. The icon is a white background with the blue NHS logo. Tap Install or Get to download it. Make sure you download the official app made by NHS Digital.
Step 2: Create your NHS account
Open the NHS App and tap Register now or Continue. Enter your email address and create a password. The app will send a verification code to your email. Open your email, find the code, and enter it in the app to verify your address.
Step 3: Verify your identity
The app needs to confirm who you are before giving you access to your health records. Tap Continue and follow the instructions. You will need to take a photo of your passport or driving licence using your phone camera, then take a short video of your face. The app compares the photo on your ID with your face to verify your identity. This usually takes a few minutes.
Step 4: Connect to your GP surgery
After identity verification, the app will search for your GP surgery using your NHS number or personal details. Confirm your GP surgery when it appears. If your surgery supports the NHS App, you will be connected automatically. You may need to wait up to 24 hours for full access to be granted.
Step 5: Book or manage GP appointments
Tap Appointments on the home screen. To book a new appointment, tap Book an appointment, choose the type of appointment you need, pick a date and time, and confirm. You can also see your upcoming appointments and cancel if needed by tapping on the appointment and selecting Cancel.
Step 6: Order repeat prescriptions
Tap Prescriptions on the home screen. You will see a list of your repeat medications. Tick the medicines you need to reorder and tap Request prescription. Your GP surgery will process the request and send it to your chosen pharmacy. You will receive a notification when it is ready to collect.
Step 7: View your health records
Tap Health records on the home screen. Here you can see your medical history, including past consultations, test results, allergies, vaccinations, and current medications. Tap any item to see more details. This information is pulled directly from your GP surgery’s records.
Tips
- If your GP surgery is not yet connected to the NHS App, ask them about it. Most surgeries in England now support the app.
- Use the 111 online feature in the app if you need urgent medical advice but it is not an emergency. It guides you to the right service.
- You can nominate your preferred pharmacy in the app so prescriptions are automatically sent there.
- Check the app regularly for test results. Your GP may add results before they have time to call you.
Useful links
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Frequently asked questions
Is the NHS App free?
Yes, the NHS App is completely free to download and use. It is the official app of the National Health Service in England.
Do I need to be registered with a GP to use the NHS App?
Yes, you need to be registered with a GP surgery in England. The app connects to your GP surgery's system, so you must have an active registration.
Can I use the NHS App in Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland?
The NHS App is for England only. Scotland has the NHS Scotland app, Wales has the NHS Wales app, and Northern Ireland has its own system. Check your local NHS website for details.
Is my health information safe on the NHS App?
Yes, the NHS App uses strong encryption and requires identity verification before you can access your records. Only you can see your information unless you choose to share it.
Can I get my COVID-19 vaccination status on the NHS App?
Yes, your vaccination records including COVID-19 are available in the app. You can view your vaccination history and download proof if needed for travel.
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