NHS app to use AI to determine which service best for patients

The tool asks patients a series of questions about their symptoms and directs them to a GP, pharmacy, A&E, community service, or offers self-care advice. The rollout is planned to reach 200,000 patients within the next 12 months. This feature is being added to the existing NHS app, which millions already use for booking appointments and accessing health records.

The AI system aims to reduce pressure on frontline services by filtering patients to the appropriate level of care. By asking detailed questions, it attempts to assess the urgency and type of care needed. The developers have not released performance data or the specific algorithms used. The tool is likely to be continuously updated based on user feedback and outcomes.

Similar triage tools have been implemented in other countries with mixed results. The NHS will monitor the tool's effectiveness in improving patient flow and reducing wait times. If successful, the tool could be expanded to cover more patients and conditions.