Patients promised online GP booking by 2015

Patients in England will be able to book GP appointments and get test results online within three years, ministers are promising. The moves are part of an Information Strategy designed to "take the hassle out of the health service". Online communications between patients and their doctors is already happening in some places. But the strategy sets out plans to ensure there is universal adoption of digital technologies. The Department of Health is also encouraging the NHS and private companies to develop new health apps for smart phones and tablet computers. 'Making life easier' Repeat prescriptions will also be available from 2015 too. The deadline mirrors the goal of giving patients access to electronic medical records - something that has already been announced. Health Secretary Andrew Lansley said: "Our NHS reforms are about making life easier for patients. "By allowing people to access the NHS online, we will put an end to the 8am rush to phone your GP to try and book an appointment. "Reforms like this will take the hassle out of the health service."