NHS app gains 2.7 million users since Covid-19 vaccine status feature added

The NHS app has gained more than 2.7 million users since an update was added allowing people to show if they have received the Covid-19 vaccine.

More than six million users in total have been reached, according to the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC).

The app – not to be confused with the NHS Covid-19 app – began enabling people to show proof they have received the vaccine from May 17, to be able to travel internationally or attend sporting events.

It could already be used to access personalised medical services, such as booking an appointment with a GP.

Between May 17 and June 14, almost five million distinct users have logged on to the platform.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock said: “Technology undoubtedly plays a huge role in how we deliver healthcare now and in the future and it is great to see so many people downloading, using and benefiting from the NHS app.

“It is vital we embrace the momentum we have built in using technology and innovation in the health and care sector over the last year as we look beyond the pandemic to improve treatment, care and the experiences of patients.”

The surge has also led to a boost in the number of people registering their organ donation preference within the app, with more than 51,000 records added – over five times more than in April.

In the last month, some 614,000 repeat prescriptions were ordered, as well as 50,000 GP appointment bookings made.

Matthew Gould, chief executive of NHSX, which is the health service’s digital innovation unit, said: “The Covid-19 status service was stood up in weeks, by a team working flat out to deliver on time an important service for users.

“It has been good to see it used to open up sporting events, facilitate travel, and encourage the use of NHS services online.”