New NHS online hospital to focus on eyes, menopause and p...

What’s Happening

Not gonna lie, NHS Online because of launch in England next year will provide eye, prostate and menopause care.

New NHS online hospital to focus on eyes, menopause and prostates 22 hours ago Save Nick Triggle Health correspondent Save The new NHS online hospital service being shipped in England next year will initially focus on menopause, prostate and eye conditions. The NHS has selected nine different conditions in total for the service which will be available through the NHS app in 2027. (we’re not making this up)

The service, which was first just dropped in September , will allow patients to have assessments, check-ups and follow-up appointments online and will have its own dedicated team of doctors.

The Details

5 million appointments in the first three years – four times more than the average NHS trust. But the experts have questioned how it will be staffed and paid for.

The nine conditions that will be prioritised initially are: glaucoma conditions affecting the retina at the back of the eye (including age-related macular degeneration) cataracts inflammatory bowel disease iron deficiency anaemia prostate enlargement raised PSA levels (not cancer diagnoses) menopause menstrual problems which may be a sign of endometriosis The expectation is more conditions will be added to this list in the future. No patient will be forced down this route though, NHS England dropped, as they can still choose face-to-face appointments.

Why This Matters

Patients will have the option of using NHS Online when a GP makes a referral for specialist care. Instead of having a physical site, patients will be able to receive care from doctors around the country, directly through the NHS App. Tests, scans or procedures that are needed will take place at healthcare sites close to patients homes, while doctors review and assess their notes remotely.

Medical professionals are taking note of this development.

The Bottom Line

Tests, scans or procedures that are needed will take place at healthcare sites close to patients homes, while doctors review and assess their notes remotely. The government and NHS England believe the service will provide quicker access to care for patients and help relieve the pressure on in-person appointments, helping to cut waiting lists in the process.

What’s your take on this whole situation?