NHS Direct app hits million user milestone

NHS Direct's mobile app has now been used by no less than a million citizens since its launch six months ago.

The app, released for both Android and the iPhone, quickly became number free iTunes app and has gone on to get a lot of positive reviews, the health service's Web and phone service has just announced. 

Comments have included, "This app provides a quick way to get a little reassurance," "It gives good advice and should prevent people wasting doctors' and A&E's time when simple self help is available" and "If you're unsure if it's worth seeing a doctor or even calling NHS Direct if they're busy, then just check your symptoms with this app and it might help you decide what to do."

"This is a significant milestone for NHS Direct and highlights the popularity of accessing healthcare remotely," commented NHS Direct Chief Operating Officer Ronnette Lucraft.

"More people now access NHS Direct's services online than they do over the phone and it is our aim to continue to provide our services in places that patients and the public will find useful and convenient. The mobile app is a more discreet and less embarrassing way of seeking health advice for sensitive issues in public or crowded places."

The app includes access to 40 health and symptom checkers covering a wide range of problems including dental pain, diarrhoea and vomiting, abdominal pain, rashes, back pain and burns. Patients can also get advice about how to relieve symptoms associated with specific conditions such as flu and hay fever. 

There's also the opportunity to get more specialist advice on issues such as mental health, contraception, sexual health matters and pregnancy problems, says the body.