Patients can now take more control of their health from their smart phones.

The free ASK NHS GP app which is available for all patients in Lewisham, helps patients to take more control of their health by interacting with virtual health care assistant named Olivia.

The app seems to feature an easy and interactive symptom checker by asking a series of questions to asses’ symptoms in a clinically safe way, using NICE accredited evidence based protocol. It then proceeds to recommend the most suitable onward care which includes self-care advice via the NHS website, appropriate appointment with a GP, direction to A&E or a call back from your doctor.

Dr Prad Velauthan, Local GP and CEO at One Health Lewisham said: “We’re really proud of the app which is empowering patients in Lewisham to take control of their health and improve access to their GP. Mobile phones and devices are part of our everyday life now and its important health keeps up with modern technology. Our app acts as a digital front door to NHS services and our patients are embracing it because it is convenient and accessible”.

ASK NHS GP app which is currently used by more than 7700 patients, it was co-developed by One Health Lewisham. The app was tested out over a number of months both by clinicians and members of the public to ensure that it could meet local health needs and provide the right kind of support for patients.

The benefits of ASK NHS GP app can be seen on the local health economy too, due to its service 27/7 health care advice at the patients convenience. The app has received national recognitions and it has now integrated in 34 out of 36 practices.

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