New NHS App feature helps patients track prescriptions
What’s new?
Patients can now check the status of their prescriptions in real time. The new feature lets you see whether your medicine is “ready to collect” or “dispatched by pharmacy” if it’s being delivered, helping to avoid unnecessary trips or phone calls.
Where is the feature available?
The update is currently available in nearly 1,500 pharmacies – including every Boots store in England – and will roll out to around 5,000 more over the next year, covering 60% of pharmacies in England.
Why does this matter?
NHS England says the feature is designed to free up time for pharmacists by reducing the number of calls about prescription status – currently estimated to make up nearly half of all calls to community pharmacies. That means pharmacy teams can spend more time advising patients and delivering vital services.
This improvement is part of a wider plan to make the NHS App more useful, including better access to appointments and repeat prescriptions. NHS England reports that 37.4 million people are now registered to use the App, with features continuing to grow.
What Healthwatch says
Ashley Green, Chief Executive of Healthwatch North Yorkshire, said:
“This is a welcome development, especially for people who prefer managing their healthcare online. But we must ensure no one is left behind.”
“We want to see clear support for those who may be less confident using digital tools – whether that’s through training, community support, or alternative options that are just as easy to access.”
Not everyone is online – and that’s okay
While digital tools like the NHS App can make things easier for many, we must ensure healthcare is inclusive. That means:
- Supporting people who aren’t confident with technology to learn safely, if they want to
- Offering information in clear, accessible formats
- Making sure phone and in-person options remain available
People must be able to access healthcare in a way that works for them – whether online, on the phone, or in person.
Tell us what you think
At Healthwatch, we’re here to make sure these changes work for everyone.
- Are you using the new feature?
- Is your local pharmacy taking part?
- Have you experienced any problems or have suggestions for improvement?
Your feedback helps us speak up for people and make NHS services better.
Find out more about the NHS App and how to register here: www.nhs.uk/nhs-app
