Millions of patients are now able to register with a new GP via the NHS App and online.
Newly released figures show that the number of practices where patients can join online has more than doubled in the last 12 months, with over 6,150 practices now supporting registration through the NHS App, NHS.uk or surgery websites.
98.4 per cent of GP practices in England are now offering online registration and more than 3.8 million patients have used the online system since it launched in November 2022.
GP sign up is one of several new features being rolled out on the NHS App to help patients access care when and where they need it.
NHS data shows that the features have enabled patients to order around 4.6 million repeat prescriptions and access over 6 million test results directly through the app each month last year, freeing up an estimated 2.6 million practice hours.
Dr Amanda Doyle, national director of primary care and community services at NHS England, said “It is fantastic that almost all GP practices are now offering online registration making it easier than ever before for people to sign up to a GP or to switch at a time which is convenient for them.
“With the online service, people can see what is available to them and complete registration in a few simple steps from any location.
“So if you have been putting off registering for a new GP practice, please check the NHS App or website for options local to you – it’s never been simpler to do and you never know when you will need to book an appointment.”
Ming Tang, interim chief digital and information officer (CDIO) at NHS England, said: “Online GP registration, as well as advances in innovations like the NHS App, are making life easier for millions of patients and their families, while also saving huge amounts of valuable time for GP staff – helping boost NHS productivity.
“We’re working closely with the Government to develop the 10-year Health Plan and create a blueprint for the move from analogue to digital healthcare so that even more patients will benefit from innovations and technologies like this for generations to come.”
