The aim of digital NHS services is to make some processes and interactions easier, or to use information better. This is to ensure that your care is the best you can receive. For example, you might be able to book an appointment online instead of having to call or visit your GP practice. You might also be able to order a repeat prescription through the web. You might even be able to have a video consultation from the comfort of your home.

The examples above are new ways of doing routine tasks, using the internet and digital technology.

There are also new technologies which can enable you to do things which would not be possible otherwise. For example, you might be able to track certain aspects of your health or symptoms. You can then automatically share this data with health professionals. You might also be able to access certain services which are online only.

In summary, digital technology can allow you to do the things you’re used to, in a better way. But it can also help you do new things, which weren’t possible before. Digital technology does not mean to replace any face-to-face services completely. We often hear that digital services work best alongside face-to-face services. But digital technology can do some of the hard work, so you can focus on what matters to you.

How can I find out what services are available to me?

NHS Digital services vary by health board and GP practice. Not all services described here are available throughout Scotland. Some might also have additional eligibility criteria. It is best to speak to a healthcare professional if you are unsure of what support you might be able to access.

If you think you would benefit from a tool which currently isn’t offered in your area, it’s always worth asking for it. In a recent study with health care professionals, 9 out of 10 said they would be more willing to provide a service where patients have requested it.

Give feedback on NHS services

Care Opinion allows you to share a specific experience of health care or social care. You can say what happened, what was good, and what could have been better. The story is then published (if possible) and shared with staff in the services who need to see it. Often, staff will reply and you will be emailed their response.

So you can use Care Opinion to pass praise on a service you experienced. You can also suggest changes or even just to review other people’s experiences. This can allow you to make an informed choice on the service you decide to visit.

• Video camera (capsule) endoscopy

A PillCam is a small video capsule the size of a large vitamin pill. It is used to provide endoscopies. This is an operation for people with gastrointestinal bleeding and unexplained abdominal pain. It can also be used for conditions such as Crohn's disease. After you swallow the video capsule, it will be transported naturally through the stomach and intestine. It captures pictures of the lining of the large intestine.

• Video diaries

Some hospitals use a service called ‘vCreate’ which provides secure video messaging. This service lets hospital staff record and send video updates to parents when they’re unable to be with their children. There is no cost to parents or the unit.

• Booking sexual health services

NaSH is an online appointment booking system for sexual health services. It provides an easy way for you to find and book an appointment at sexual health clinics across Scotland. It will help you to book an appointment that is most convenient for you. It allows you to search for an appointment based on gender, age, type of appointment or service you require and location. 

• Maternity records

Scottish Women-Held Maternity Record  allows women access to their maternity records. You can access it over the internet through a PC, tablet device, or mobile phone. The information comes from your hospital based its maternity system. It is made up of details entered by your midwife or other health professionals involved in your care.

• Near me

Near Me can also be used for secondary care appointments. It works the same as it would for a consultation with your GP. More information on Near Me.

The following digital self management tools have been developed by NHS Scotland:

• NHS inform

For anyone based in Scotland, NHS inform is the best source of health information. You can find information about illnesses and conditions, symptoms and self-help. You can also find information on tests and treatments, advice on healthy living and even information on care, support and your rights. There is also seasonal and topical information that is refreshed frequently.

If you are having mental wellbeing challenges, NHS Inform hosts a website called Mind to Mind, which offers advice and support on topics such as handling stress, dealing with anxiety and managing sleep. 

• Scotland’s Service Directory

At Scotland's Service Directory you can find thousands of health and wellbeing services in Scotland. It gives you the names, addresses, opening times and service details. You choose the type of service you are looking for and then search using your postcode. 

• NHS 24 Online app

The NHS 24 Online app enables you to find your nearest services. You can also access the NHS 24’s virtual assistant, where you can chat about your symptoms. The assistant will let you know what you should do next. 

• My Diabetes My Way

My Diabetes My Way  is an online self management platform for people with diabetes. It has been running in NHS Scotland since 2008. You can access information about diabetes through leaflets, videos, education tools and games. Individuals can also use the website to view up-to-date diabetes clinic results. They can even share stories with other people with diabetes and develop a social support network.

• Sleepio and Daylight

Scotland offers access to digital therapeutics for insomnia and anxiety free of charge. Check out the Sleepio and Daylight apps.

Commercial and non-commercial tools

There are a lot of other online tools available for self management today. Some have been developed in collaboration with the NHS, some have been developed by charities and some are from private companies. Some tools are free, and others will incur a cost. You can use ALISS, ADAM, the Best For You ORCHA App Library or the Aye Mind useful tool list to find some suggestions.

In the UK there are laws that protects personal data. Organisations must store confidential information securely.

• A health professional, such as a GP or a consultant, can only access limited information on a patient. They must be involved in the care of that patient to access this data. They don't necessarily have access to the full health record. Records are not always shared between primary care, secondary care and speciality clinics.
• There are laws that protect the confidentiality of personal information. For example, the GDPR, the Data Protection Act 2018 and Freedom of Information Act 2000.
• NHS organisations and local councils must keep people’s health and care information safe. If they provide social services, they must have a Caldicott Guardian. This is a senior person who ensures the information is used properly.

NHS data can be shared for research purposes, but the following rules apply:

• Patients must consent to their data used in this way. This consent must be given when the data is first collected. This consent must also be explicit.
• Where data is shared with a third party, legal contracts are required. These contracts set out strict rules about what the organisation can or cannot do with data.
• Public health services, charities, academics and private companies may also have access to NHS data. This data may have details removed to protect the identity of those it relates to.

Below are some examples of how data is used in the NHS in Scotland.

• SHARE

SHARE is a Scottish initiative. It was created to establish a register of people willing to take part in medical research projects. Over 275,000 people have signed up so far. Register for SHARE at www.registerforshare.org.

Data Strategy for Health and Social Care

In February 2023, the Scottish Government launched the first-ever Data Strategy for Health and Social Care. It aims to “improve the care and wellbeing of people in Scotland by making best use of data in the design and delivery of services.” 

Find out more:

You have just completed the fourth section of this guide:

1. About / How to use this guide
2. The big picture
3. Digital tools for self management
4. Digital NHS services
5. Technology enabled care
6. Safeguarding and self-evaluation
7. Glossary and references

The Health and Social Care Alliance Scotland (the ALLIANCE) is the national third sector intermediary for a range of health and social care organisations. We have a growing membership of over 3,000 national and local third sector organisations, associates in the statutory and private sectors, disabled people, people living with long term conditions and unpaid carers.

The ALLIANCE vision is for a Scotland where people of all ages who are disabled or living with long term conditions, and unpaid carers, have a strong voice and enjoy their right to live well, as equal and active citizens, free from discrimination, with support and services that put them at the centre.

Since 2018, we have managed the Discover Digital project, with support from the Scottish Government Digital Health and Care and the Technology Enabled Care divisions.