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Patient Participation Group Newsletter: Summer 2026
This edition focuses on the NHS App. At the PPG we have had the NHS App on our list of considerations for many meetings and recently discussed it as a group. The information in this issue of out newsletter is based on that discussion. We hope you will find it useful.
Lynne Spencer, PPG Chair
About the NHS App
Before the NHS App, there were other online applications relating to the NHS, but these have been superseded by the NHS App; it is easier to use this one system, rather than using several.
The NHS App was released for use around 2020, and it's been constantly refined and updated. It is free to use for patients and the practice.
Nationally 53 per cent of the population use the app; at Whitstable Medical Practice it’s also 53 per cent of patients that now use it.
The NHS has been promoting the app on the radio, in NHS publications, the screens in GP surgeries and on the NHS website. So therefore, is it time for us to focus on it.
The standard policy is for you to be able to see your health information on the NHS App from the date you signed up, but you can request full access to historical information by contacting the practice.
You can view several support videos about the NHS. These cover things such as:
- Setting up the NHS App
- Help with using the NHS App
- About the NHS App, including recent changes
The instructions are spoken, while the app is displayed in front of you so that you can see where to tap (remember that you can reject cookies).
Does everyone in your family use the app? If not, consider why not. You can get help to set the NHS App up on your smartphone or tablet.
Information on the NHS Website, says that if you are 13 or over you can use the NHS App.
NHS App questions and answers
How do I get the NHS App?
The app is available for iOS and Android devices:
You can install the app and use it on a tablet or smartphone. You can also use it on the NHS website by logging in to your NHS account. You can create an account if you don't have one.
How do I log in?
There is an option to log in with facial recognition, by password, or by thumbprint. However, if you choose this option, you then need to log into your phone this way.
As a safety feature, you will be logged out after 10 minutes of no activity.
How do I change my email address?
There is a link on the app under profile/contact details where you can change your email address, mobile phone number or home address.
Where can I get help to use the NHS App?
At Whitstable Medical Practice the registrations team is responsible for supporting account creation and modification. They can help with many of the common queries or problems.
However, if you need personalised support, you can approach the local library.
Closer to home, why not ask younger family members? You may also find help online if you search for the particular problem or error message.
What are the benefits of using the NHS App?
Ordering repeat prescriptions is faster, and smoother. It is also easier to order a partner’s medications if you are linked to their record. In addition, most pharmacies are linked to the NHS App, and if you contact your nominated pharmacy and register with them, they will send you updates about the status of your prescription (for example, that it’s ready to collect).
If you have lasting power of attorney or power of attorney for your partner or parent, you can get access to their notes through 'proxy access' within the NHS App. Whitstable Medical Practice has a form for patients to complete so someone can see and help to manage the care for others. Many patients have this. It is very common that a son or daughter will order prescriptions for their elderly parent etc.
Can I use the app to check my appointments?
Yes, you can see prevoius appointments and dates of future appointments.
You can find the venue of the appointment in the same place.
You can see consultations and events from when you began to use the app.
There is also a link that explains abbreviations.
How can I give my views on the NHS App?
At the foot of the 'GP-ordered test results' page there is a link to give feedback about the NHS App.
You can also find out what’s new on the App and join a user feedback panel.
What if I see something that isn’t accurate?
If you think your record is not accurate, and the practice agrees, you can make a request at the surgery to get this altered, especially if it is a lifelong condition such as Rheumatoid Arthritis or Multiple Sclerosis.
One of the reasons for making sure the record is accurate is that if you go to another part of the UK and need emergency treatment, being able to show your health record to the practitioner you are seeing is important.
At Whitstable Medical Practice, to notify errors or missing diagnosis, contact us. The practice will assess this and make appropriate updates to the patient record. Any updates made will synchronise almost immediately with the NHS app. You will just need to log out and back in.
Can I see the results of blood tests?
These results will be under your GP health record, where the headings include:
- Allergies and adverse reactions
- Medicines (divided into short term-use and repeat medicines)
- Immunisations
- Health conditions
- Test results
You can see consultations and events from when you began to use the app.
There is also a link to a section that explains abbreviations.
Can the app help me when I’m away from home?
Yes, you can find local healthcare services in the area you are staying via the NHS App.
The best way to get confident with the NHS App is to use it
Health advice in general is better accessed via the NHS website rather than watching videos on social media channels such as YouTube, Instagram or TikTok, created by people who may not be health professionals or offering advice based on authoritative research.
Patient Participation Group
Are you interested in becoming an associate member of the PPG? Or would you like to find out more about how you can contribute your voice to services at Whitstable Medical Practice?
Find out how to become a member of the PPG.
Register to express your interest in joining the PPG. We will contact you to talk through the next steps and the commitment needed as a member.
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