News

NHS support via text message for people with symptoms of Covid-19

People staying at home suffering with suspected coronavirus symptoms will get regular check-ins from a new NHS messaging service launched today.

Daily texts will be sent by the NHS to new patients who register their Covid-19 symptoms and contact details with the 111 online service.

The messages will check how people are, and ensure that those who need help to get them through the isolation period receive it.

The text messages will be sent as a reassurance to those who contact NHS 111 online, complete the assessment, and leave basic information such as their age, mobile number and when their symptoms started.

Health and Social Care Secretary Matt Hancock said: “We are doing everything we can to protect the health of the nation during this outbreak, including supporting our fantastic NHS and social care workforce who are looking after people who have symptoms or are self-isolating.

“I know all too well that experiencing symptoms can be worrying, but for those living on their own it will be even more so. Alongside other measures, this new daily text service will reassure our most vulnerable that they are not alone, and also to help them manage their symptoms.

“Technology, combined with our heroic staff on the frontline, have played a huge role in battling this virus and I encourage everyone to use this new service.”

Professor Jonathan Benger, Chief Medical Officer at NHS Digital, said: “Across the country, people are playing their part in the battle to save lives and stop the spread of coronavirus by doing the right thing and staying home if they have got symptoms.

“However we know that for many this will be difficult. This new service will help people to get the encouragement, advice and support that they need.”

Dr Simon Eccles, Deputy Chief Executive, NHSX said: “This new service is vitally important to help the NHS to understand the impact of the virus on patients and its progression and spread across the country.”

People who don’t want to receive text messages will be able to opt out at any time.

People should visit the NHS.UK/coronavirus page as the first and best port of call for the most up to date information and advice.

The new text messaging service has been commissioned by NHSX and built by NHS Digital and the NHS Business Services Authority. The text messages will come from NHS Covid-19.