New 'online hospital' for common ailments

NEW “online hospital” being rolled out next year will enable patients to speak to specialists about issues such as prostate problems, the menopause and eyesight.

- JANE KIRBY Press Association

Following referral from their GP, patients will be able to use the NHS app for a video consultation with doctors around the country.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced the move last year, saying a “new world is coming”.

The first conditions managed by the service have just been announced by NHS England.

They include women's health issues such as severe menopausal symptoms and symptoms of endometriosis or fibroids.

Prostate enlargement and a raised prostate specific antigen (PSA) level - a possible sign of prostate cancer - will also be covered by the service, alongside eye conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration.

People with iron deficiency anaemia and inflammatory bowel disease may also get help through the service.