Two thirds of consultants would work for NHS Online, finds survey

Almost two thirds of NHS consultants would be interested in working for the NHS’s online hospital when the service launches next year, according to an NHS England poll.

NHS Online, which will see its first patients in 2027, is expected to deliver up to 8.5 million virtual appointments and assessments in its first three years – four times more than an average NHS trust.

A survey of nearly 300 consultants and specialist doctors found that 60% would be interested in working for NHS Online alongside their current NHS roles.

Professor Stella Vig, national clinical director for elective care at NHS England, said: “It’s fantastic to see that consultants and specialist doctors are hugely supportive of the NHS’s new online hospital, with nearly two thirds willing to offer their time for this revolutionary service alongside their current roles.

“NHS Online will transform the way we deliver planned care, offering patients the choice to have an online appointment with a specialist anywhere in England.

“The service will make a real difference to patients’ lives as they’ll be able to choose to use NHS Online and be seen more quickly and conveniently, with many appointments delivered by video or telephone in their own home.”

The survey also found that 48% of consultants would be willing to offer at least four hours a week of their time, with the opportunity to care for patients innovatively, work flexibly and improve patient experience among their top reasons for wanting to sign up.

NHSE has expanded the list of conditions which NHS Online will treat from the original nine conditions, including menopause and prostate problems, to also include urinary tract infections or suspected polycystic ovaries.

The virtual service is planned to provide triage for patients through the NHS App, and allow them to have video consultations with expert doctors across England.

Zubir Ahmed, health minister, said: “By turbocharging the NHS with the latest technology, NHS Online will let people see specialist doctors faster – from the comfort of their own home.

“Every day matters when you’re waiting for treatment. This is about using the power of tech to get people diagnosed, treated and back living their lives faster.

“We’re proud to be cutting waiting times by embracing innovation. It makes the NHS work around patients and also offers new flexible ways of working for staff, all while keeping face-to-face care there for those who need it.”

Patients will have the option of using NHS Online when their GP makes a referral for specialist care to receive care from doctors around the country directly through the NHS App.

Tests, scans or procedures will continue to take place at healthcare sites closer to patients’ homes, while clinicians will be able to triage patients and review their notes remotely, potentially outside office hours, without the patient needing to be present.

NHSE said that patients who would prefer to be referred via the traditional route will still have the choice to see specialists at a healthcare site.