With a campaign that only started a few months ago, the Frome Medical

Practice already has more than 900 patients who have signed up to the NHS App, making it the GP practice in Somerset with the highest number of patients now committed to the new service.

With the NHS App, patients can order repeat prescriptions, book clinical

appointments online (once the coronavirus is behind us) as well as view their own medical records. Additionally, amongst other uses, the app enables patients to check out their own symptoms.

Supported by her colleagues at the practice, leading the campaign is Rachel Haupt, appointed as the practice's first ever Digital Health Connector.

'The App is a real game changer,' says Rachel. 'Basically, it makes things quicker and easier for the patient. In many cases, it will not even be necessary for the patient to contact the practice direct, thus freeing up vital time and resources within the NHS.'

The success of the project was achieved initially by patients being invited to sign up to the app by text message. The app was also promoted through the practice's new Facebook page (Facebook.com/FromeHealth) as well as the re-launched patient newsletter, both designed to keep patients fully up to date

with all the latest news and developments. In addition, patients can also apply to sign up to the app on their own initiative via the practice website.

'The population of Frome does however appear to be fairly switched on to new technology, with over 19,000 patients already signed up to being able to make appointments online,' adds Rachel. 'There is however a rigorous security procedure that I need to go through with every patient before the app goes 'live'. As part of my role as Digital Health Connector, it is also for me to train and advise patients who need support so that they then have the confidence to use the app. It may have been really hard work to get to where we are, but it has also been extremely rewarding, helping patients one to one.'

The reaction of the patients has also been positive. One Frome patient, Mark Grist, described the process as follows:

'Rachel was very patient with both me and my partner, both at different

technical abilities, she was able to get us both setup with the app at the

same time on the phone! In a nutshell, Rachel was patient and supportive. Thank you Rachel for making the app accessible to all.'

Another patient of the practice, Alex Jeffries, commented as follows:

'I found being able to view my full medical record extremely useful.

Once installed I was able to check that I was up to date with my

immunisations. The app installation itself was very easy and quick.'

Existing patients wanting to find out more and sign up to the NHS App

can do so by clicking on this link at the practice website

the Frome Medical site

Updated June 24: Currently the online appointments are unavailable to book, due to COVID-19. Once we resume a more normal way of working, online appointments will be available & bookable using the App.

There are a number of major differences between the App and the FMP portal. The App can give access to your full medical record, including consultations, test results and a great deal more. The App also has an online 111 service built in containing an A-Z of conditions & advice.