NHS England recently announced the launch of its own WhatsApp channel, providing a way to communicate and share important health information directly with members of the public.
As of the 11 August 2025, the channel has around 24,000 followers who will be given “official health information, updates and news” from the NHS in the form of WhatsApp messages. The service reportedly covers a range of areas including, health alerts, seasonal advice, NHS updates and announcements, myth-busting and fact-checking content, as well as public health campaigns such as flu vaccines and COVID-19 information.
Those who are already following the WhatsApp channel have been encouraged to “forward content directly to their family and friends within WhatsApp”, with the channel made available through WhatsApp’s search feature or by following a link that takes users directly to the dedicated channel.
As part of this focus on embracing the use of digital technology, NHS England’s most recent board meeting offered updates on key performance metrics around their digital priorities. They highlighted the importance of making improvements to the NHS App based on what patients want most from a digital service, while also discussing the future operating model for NHSE’s digital priorities and outlining aims to maximise EPRs following implementation.
Communication tech in health and care
A recent HTN Now panel discussion covered how to advance patient engagement using communication tech and patient portals, exploring adoption, engagement, the use of AI and automation technologies, functionality and the future role of patient portals and communication tech in tackling NHS challenges. We were joined by Jothi Vasan-O’Leary, medical information officer and outpatient clinical lead (GIRFT) at University Hospitals of Derby and Burton; Daniel Parkinson, digital IT project manager at Leeds Teaching Hospitals; Sally Mole, senior digital programme manager – digital portfolio delivery team at The Dudley Group; and Emma Stratful, chief operating officer at OX.DH.
In June, King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust opened a prior information notice for the procurement of patient/citizen communication & engagement solutions. The £3.75 million opportunity searched for the tools required to “facilitate the provision of digital and hybrid patient communication services”, including a patient engagement portal, chatbot services, SMS reminders, hybrid mail and appointment management tools that are capable of integrating with EPIC.
Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust recently launched a patient communication toolkit, with the aim to support patients with additional communication needs. The toolkit reportedly provides “a diverse collection of pictures and icons” to cover a range of everyday topics designed to help patients when it comes to explaining their feelings and requirements to staff.
