Health officials in Bristol have turned to the latest Apple technology to give patients information about local NHS services.
NHS Bristol has launched its own iPhone app, which provides a comprehensive information service for local patients, including contact details of local health services to GPS directions, and even a reminder service for those with GP appointments in a bid to cut down on the number – and cost – of missed meetings.
It is hoped that the “push” reminder service will help cut the £180m bill the NHS faces every year through missed appointments.
The app also allows users to locate their nearest GP, Walk-in Centre or NHS dentist using the smartphone’s GPS technology and will feature a unique voice guide, which will tell users what to do in specific health emergencies.
An “In Case of Emergency” (ICE) function providing details of who to contact in an emergency is also available on the app.
NHS Bristol chief executive Deborah Evans said the new app has been designed to make accessing information about health services in the area as simple as possible.
“This application is a way for us to open services up to the public and provide genuine information and choice for patients. I’m excited at the way we can use new technologies to improve patients’ choice and I’m sure that the people of Bristol will feel the same way,” she said.
Copyright © Press Association 2010
(IPhone image Courtesy of Apple)
“Yes, looks like a great idea” – Mara Golden, London
