NHS patients will be given the ability to skip long waiting lists with the launch of a new app. That's the hope of Health Secretary Steve Barclay, according to reports.
People who have routine operations coming up will be able to select the hospital with the shortest queue, and not simply settle for their closest. The app will be an updated version of the one which was downloaded to display Covid vaccine passports.
Mr Barclay has reportedly said he was patients to have access to 'real-time data' on hospital waiting lists by next April. He wants to ensure GPs offer 'a meaningful choice offer for patients at the point of referral, which can also be used during any long wait for care', according to a memo seen by The Times.
The app will include 'real-time data on waiting times broken down by providers', including from private hospitals which handle public contracts. There has been no word on who would foot the travel bill should a patient go further afield for their treatment.
