5% of practices not connected to NHS App after deadline

Around 5% of practices are still not connected to the NHS app, despite the deadline of 1 July passing.
 
NHSX, the NHS organisation working on digital transformation of the NHS, has revealed that practices using EMIS and TPP clinical systems are connected to the app, and practices using Vision and Microtest are not.
 
In May, NHS Digital revealed two-thirds of practices were connected to the NHS App thanks to ‘strong support from practice managers’. 
 
NHS England previously said all GP practices would be connected to the app by 1 July 2019.
 
In January, it said: ‘Most practices will go live between April and June 2019, with the NHS App expected to be fully rolled out to practices and patients by 1 July 2019.’
 
However, NHS Digital has said it previously stated that all EMIS and TPP systems will be fully connected by 1 July and that Vision and Microtest systems would be connected later.
 
Practices using Vision and Microtest serve just under 4% of the population. NHSX has said it needs further work with the suppliers to connect the app to those practices.
 
NHSX interim chief digital officer Tara Donnelly said: ‘As of 1 July, the NHS App is available to 96% of patients.’
 
NHSX was set up in February to work on digital transformation, bringing together teams from the Department of Health, NHS England and NHS Improvement.
 
A version of this article was first published by our sister title Pulse.