New plans for expanded use of technology in NHS outlined

A new vision for the use of technology across the NHS has been outlined by health secretary Jeremy Hunt.

Speaking at the NHS Innovation Expo in Manchester, Mr Hunt confirmed that it should be possible for all patients to access their full GP electronic records online by 2016, including blood test results, appointment records and medical histories.

By 2018 this record will include information from all their health and care interactions. This ties in with the minister's goal of ensuring one-quarter of smartphone users are routinely accessing NHS advice, services and medical records through apps by the end of the next financial year.

Additionally, by the end of 2018 all doctors and nurses will be able to access key information online across GP surgeries, ambulance services and A&E departments, with this function expanded to the social care system by 2020.

Mr Hunt said: "We no longer have to carry round our cheque books or boarding passes, and we shouldn't accept any less when it comes to our health."

Currently, 84 percent of the UK population use the internet and 59 percent use a smartphone, yet only two percent have had any digital interaction with the NHS.