Tech Tuesdays: The NHS App

Last week we tackled heating thermostats. This week: the NHS App that everyone mentions but fewer people actually use. Here's the realistic version of getting it set up.

'Margaret' Finally Cracked the NHS App (Orders Prescriptions in Her Pyjamas Now)

By Vivienne | Tech Tuesday

'Margaret' lives close to Pummery Square and takes a number of medications regularly. Until six months ago, her routine was: walk to Poundbury Pharmacy, ask them to request a repeat prescription, wait three days, walk back to collect. Around four trips a month. Sometimes in the rain. With arthritis.

Then she got a cold in November, couldn't face the walk, and thought "Today's the day". She worked out how to use the NHS app, and now orders prescriptions from her phone during morning tea.

The Realistic Version

Getting the App: Go to the Apple App Store or Google Play, search "NHS App" (blue logo). Download the app; it takes two minutes.

Registration (The Faffy Bit): You will need your NHS number (which you can find on old prescriptions), your date of birth and your mobile number. The app verifies you with your GP surgery which takes anywhere from an hour to two days. 'Margaret's' took 24 hours. Create a secure password. Please don't use "password123."

Ordering Prescriptions: Open app → Tap "Prescriptions" → Tick what you need → Choose pharmacy (Poundbury Pharmacy is listed) → Tap "Order."

Done. You get a notification when ready to collect (2-3 working days).

The Surprise

The app reminds 'Margaret' when she's running low. She used to forget and panic-order everything at once. Now her phone pings her a week before.

Also: she can order at 11pm on Sunday if she wants. No waiting for the pharmacy to open.

Still Have to Collect

NHS doesn't deliver (unfortunately). But 'Margaret' collects on her way back from Waitrose now; one trip instead of many. If you're housebound, Poundbury Pharmacy does delivery for some patients, ask them directly.

The Security Question

"What if someone steals my phone?"

Well, they'd need your fingerprint/Face ID to unlock the app, then your password. It's the same security as online banking.

Worth the Faff?

'Margaret' thinks so. The setup can be annoying but once done, it's done. It takes her 20 seconds to order now. "I wish I'd done it two years ago," she says.

Get Help

Age UK runs free drop-in sessions in Crown Square. They'll help you set this up.

Your Turn

Still stuck with the NHS App? Email tech@lovepoundbury.org

Next time: Why my neighbour pays all their bills from their phone.

The information provided is accurate at the date of publication.