The NHS app, utilized by over 34 million people, is set to enhance the experience of patients and pharmacists alike with a new feature that provides real-time updates on prescription statuses. This addition follows the launch of the electronic prescription service (EPS) earlier this year, which has already streamlined the medication delivery process across England.
Currently in its pilot phase, the tracking feature will allow patients to monitor their prescriptions online, addressing the significant number of inquiries that pharmacies receive about prescription progress. According to Nilisha Patel, the clinical lead for digital medicines at NHS England, approximately 45% of patient queries to pharmacies revolve around this topic. By reducing the need for these phone calls—estimated to account for about 12 hours of staff time weekly—pharmacists can redirect their focus to other critical areas of care.
The EPS has already proven beneficial, saving an estimated 300,000 hours of frontline staff time at GP surgeries since its implementation. The upcoming tracker promises to further alleviate pressures on community pharmacies, many of which are experiencing severe financial strain. With increasing workloads and spiraling costs leading to the risk of closure for one in six pharmacies, innovations like the NHS app’s tracking feature offer a much-needed lifeline.
Set to begin its gradual rollout to major pharmacy chains, including Boots and Invatech, the in-app prescription tracker aims to be fully operational by January 2025. By providing patients with real-time updates without adding extra steps to pharmacists’ workflows, this tool not only empowers users but also reinvests time into enhancing pharmacy services. The NHS app continues to pave the way for a digital transformation in healthcare, making prescription management more efficient and accessible for everyone involved.
Article written by Robert Barrie
25/09/2024
Source:
Medical Device Network
https://www.medicaldevice-network.com/news/why-a-new-prescription-tracking-feature-on-the-nhs-app-is-important-for-pharmacists/?cf-view