A focused exploration of digital inclusion and exclusion for specific community groups accessing and using the NHS App

Our project builds on previous research evaluating the NHS App, which is designed to make healthcare services like patient record access, prescription ordering, and GP appointment booking more accessible. Despite government ambitions for widespread use, we've identified challenges in ensuring the app is equally accessible to everyone, particularly minoritised and vulnerable groups.

By focusing on digital inequality, we aim to understand how different patient groups, including those from varied ethnic backgrounds and those without a permanent home, can access the NHS App effectively. Working with community organisations, we'll conduct focus groups to find out the specific needs and experiences of these communities. The outcome will not only enhance our understanding of digital health inequalities, but also inform the NHS App's development to better meet the diverse needs of England's population. This will ultimately contribute to more equitable healthcare access.