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NHS Nicola Sturgeon

NHS 24 launches new digital TV channel

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By The Drum Team, Editorial

September 27, 2011 | 3 min read

NHS 24 has launched a new digital TV channel to provide information from NHS 24, NHS inform and Care Information Scotland web services to those who may not have internet access.

The system is also being used by NHS 24 to pilot a scheme with Dunblane Medical Practice where patients can book appointments with their GP and which in future may enable them to order repeat prescriptions.

Available through Freesat, Sky and Virgin, the channel gives people access to health advice and information on local services. An app for iphones, ipads and android smartphones also gives access to the digital service.

Heath Secretary Nicola Sturgeon said: “We want to ensure that more people in Scotland can access health information and advice where and when they need it, particularly those who need it most. Many Scots, including those living in our more deprived communities and older people, do not have access to the internet at home. Now they can access this information, quickly and easily through their televisions.

“Since it went live, there have been more than 30,000 contacts a month accessing the channel from their front rooms in Scotland and that is set to increase. We are piloting booking GP appointments and looking at whether repeat prescriptions can be ordered through the channel in future. It is now possible to check on your alcohol intake through your remote and soon a full health check may be available.

“The NHS doesn't stand still. This is a fantastic example of how we are constantly updating the way that patients interact with the NHS to make sure that we deliver a top quality service.”

Lynne Huckerby, NHS 24’s head of health information services, said: “Although in a digital age many people access their information through the web and their phones, around 39 per cent of the Scottish population do not have access to the internet.

“However, more than three million people in Scotland now have access to digital television and it is vital that we are able to broaden our reach to as many people across the country as possible.

“The ability to get good quality health information is a right that everyone should have and by investing in this new service, we hope that we are opening up access to even more people.”

The new service, which is delivered in partnership with Looking Local, went live on April 1 2011.

The channel can be accessed through Freesat and Sky (community channel 539) and Virgin Media (home button, interactive number 7). The BBC's new Youview service is being considered for the future.

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