Overview

• The NHS is shifting to a digital-first model that makes the NHS app the primary channel for appointment reminders, screening invitations and test results
• The move is backed by over £50 million in investment and is expected to save around £200 million on postage and stationery over three years
• Officials forecast the app will send about 270 million messages this year, up 70 million from last year, and plan to roll out new features such as calendar integration and faster log-ins
• The change forms part of next week’s spending review, with savings earmarked for reinvestment in frontline services
• Campaigners warn that older and digitally excluded patients risk missing vital notices, so postal communications will be retained only as a last resort