Digital Inclusion Week: Helping more people access NHS services online

Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust is supporting Digital Inclusion Week, helping patients and communities find the support they need to get online and make the most of digital NHS services.

As more health information and services become available digitally, the Trust is encouraging people who can use the NHS App to make sure they have it downloaded and know how to access it.

For patients, the NHS App can provide access to hospital appointments and some appointment-related letters, although the services available can vary depending on the specialty and individual circumstances.

Making it easier for patients to see information about their care is an important part of our work to improve the outpatient experience. Clear and timely information can help people prepare for appointments, keep track of when they are due to attend and know what to expect.

But going digital must not mean leaving anyone behind.

People may face barriers to accessing digital services for many reasons, including confidence using technology, access to devices or the internet, connectivity, or simply not knowing where to start.

A range of support is available locally, including digital and online health support through Derbyshire County Council and information about improving digital connectivity in rural communities through Rural Action Derbyshire.

Michelle Veitch, Chief Operating Officer at Chesterfield Royal Hospital, said: “Using digital technology well gives us a real opportunity to make accessing healthcare simpler for our patients.

“The NHS App is an increasingly important way for people to access information about their care, including hospital appointments and some letters. We want to encourage people who can use it to download the App, explore what is available to them and make sure their contact details are kept up to date.

“But digital transformation has to be inclusive. We know that not everyone has the same access to technology or feels confident using digital services. It is important that we continue to provide appropriate alternatives while also signposting people to the support available to help them get online.”

Could you help someone get connected?

This Digital Inclusion Week, we're asking people to think about relatives, friends or neighbours who might benefit from a little support using digital NHS services.

That could be helping someone download and navigate the NHS App, showing them where to find information about their care, or simply pointing them towards local organisations that can provide further digital support.

Lisa Kelly, Chief Strategy and Transformation Lead and Deputy Chief Executive, said: “Digital technology has a really important role to play in how we improve care and make it easier for people to access and navigate NHS services. But transformation only works if we take people with us.

“Digital Inclusion Week is a useful reminder that while many people benefit from tools such as the NHS App, others may need additional help or different ways to access information. Our ambition is to make the most of digital opportunities while ensuring that nobody is left behind.”

If you're already confident online, could you help someone who isn't?

For more information, visit Derbyshire County Council's digital and online health support information or Rural Action Derbyshire's information about digital connectivity.