NHS to offer new digital services to Brits in their homes
More patients will receive faster, more convenient care from the comfort of their own homes, through the rollout of new digital technologies across the NHS.
Dozens of new pilot schemes across England will use remote monitoring and self-reporting tools through the NHS App to help patients share updates on their health directly with specialists.
The government’s push to bring in more remote monitoring will allow patients to share key health information – such as blood pressure, oxygen levels, or other symptoms – without needing to travel for an appointment.
This makes care more convenient, helps clinicians detect changes early, reduces pressure on hospitals, and frees up time for staff to see patients who need face-to-face care most.
The NHS is also launching a world-first clinical trial to support people living with motor neuron disease (MND) using remote monitoring tech, helping them to access breathing support from home. Patients with MND can suffer with symptoms such as difficulty with movement, speaking, swallowing, and breathing, with the trial seeking to improve quality of life.
The projects will help inform the wider expansion of remote monitoring across all long-term conditions, pledged by the government in its Elective Reform Plan.
Once in full flow, remote monitoring is expected to free up around 500,000 appointments every year, so patients can be seen by specialists faster.
“Patients expect care fit for the 21st century and that’s what I’m determined to deliver. This is a government that puts the NHS and patients first as our record investment in the service shows,” said Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting.
“Using tech to bring care closer to home frees up hospital appointments for those who truly need them and makes life simpler for everyone. That’s our mission: care that’s easier, faster, and always within reach.
“Through innovative approaches like this and NHS Online – which will digitally connect patients to expert clinicians anywhere in England – we are building a smarter NHS all while easing pressures on busy hospitals and stretched staff,” he said.
