By Samantha Leathers

Copyright dailystar

Parents and carers will notice significant changes in the NHS app during the coming year as a new family function gets introduced. The feature is presently being tested with nearly 12,000 individuals and 68 GP surgeries currently utilising it. Ministers intend to launch the service nationwide across England during 2026. By early 2027, officials anticipate the function will enable users to access the app for family members irrespective of which GP surgeries they’re registered with. The innovative family function permits patients to register via the NHS app. This enables them to toggle between their personal account and a family member’s, making it simpler for mums, dads and carers to arrange consultations or request repeat medications for those they look after. At present, switching accounts is only feasible if both the carer and their dependant are enrolled at the identical GP practice. However, health bosses have stated the function will be as straightforward to navigate as changing Netflix accounts. Will Palmer, digital community connector at Frome Medical Practice in Somerset, commented: “Patients are so relieved that they can easily get set up to order repeat prescriptions or see test results for their loved ones in the NHS app. “For our practice, it reduces the admin burden and improves efficiency, care co-ordination and communication, as well as empowering carers – it’s a gamechanger.” Dr Vin Diwakar, clinical transformation director at NHS England, told PA: “The family access feature in the NHS app makes it much easier for parents and carers to support the health of their loved ones – and it’s as simple as switching Netflix profiles. “It’s also hugely beneficial for GP practices, reducing the time staff spend on admin and freeing up resources, as well as improving efficiency and co-ordination of care. “This is a great example of how we’re transforming healthcare by harnessing digital technology as part of the Government’s 10-Year Health Plan, as well as tackling digital exclusion.” Professor Nora Colton, director of University College London’s global business school for health, said: “Too often debates about the digital revolution taking place across the NHS just focus on how AI will transform healthcare. “But as important is how to make it as simple and as straightforward as possible for patients to access the treatment and care they need. Too many patients face too many barriers to do simple things like contact their doctor when they need to. “Opening up the system so family members can support their loved ones more quickly and more easily might not seem transformative, it will make a genuine impact on the lives of the most vulnerable people the NHS cares for.” The NHS app, currently used by approximately 38.5 million people, offers a range of services including booking appointments, accessing medical records and arranging GP visits. The latest update will enable users to manage these tasks for their dependents, making the app more user-friendly for those who may struggle with technology or language barriers.