Important Update: Reduction in SMS Messages & How to Stay Connected with Us

The NHS is moving towards a digital‑first approach for communicating with patients, focusing on using the NHS App and email as the primary channels for sending important updates, reminders and health information. This helps improve accessibility, reduce costs to the NHS, and ensure messages are delivered securely and efficiently. [digital.nhs.uk], [notify.nhs.uk]

Why Fewer SMS Texts Will Be Sent

The cost of sending SMS messages across the NHS has risen significantly. GP practices are therefore being encouraged to prioritise free digital channels—such as the NHS App and email—to ensure NHS resources are used effectively and avoid unnecessary SMS charges.

✅ How You Can Stay Fully Informed

You do not need to contact the practice to begin using any of the services below.

1. Use the NHS App

The NHS App is becoming the main way the NHS sends digital messages, including appointment reminders, prescription information, and updates about your care. [digital.nhs.uk]

If notifications are turned on, messages reach you instantly at no cost. If a message isn’t read in the app within 24 hours, it may then be delivered via SMS instead.

Get started:
Download the NHS App from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and sign in using your NHS login.

2. Make Sure We Have Your Email Address

Email is a free, reliable and secure way for us to contact you. When we have your email address, we can send practice updates, some appointment information and relevant health messages without relying on SMS.

You can update your email easily through the PATCHS service on our website—no phone call required.

3. Keep Your Contact Details Updated

Up-to-date mobile numbers and email addresses reduce failed SMS messages, which still incur a cost to the NHS even if undelivered. [primarycar...icb.nhs.uk]

You can update your details using PATCHS on our website or during a visit to reception.

✅ 4. Requesting Appointment Confirmation Texts

To help us reduce unnecessary SMS usage, confirmation texts will now only be sent if patients specifically request them when booking appointments.

If you would like an SMS confirmation:

• Let the receptionist know at the time of booking or
• Select the request option when booking online (where available)

This ensures we only send SMS messages when they are genuinely needed.

What This Means for You

You will continue to receive all important information from the practice. The only change is how we deliver it—with the NHS App and email becoming the preferred options.

This approach helps us:

• Improve message reliability
• Reduce NHS costs
• Provide a more convenient digital experience
• Deliver more joined‑up communication

Digital-first does not mean digital‑only; patients who cannot use digital channels will continue to be supported.