Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals (DBTH) is encouraging patients and local residents to download the free NHS App ahead of the Easter Bank Holiday – helping reduce missed appointments and ensure services run as smoothly as possible during what can be a busy period. As the Easter weekend approaches (Friday 3 April to Monday 6 April) and the school holidays get underway, missed appointments can increase as plans change and other commitments take priority. However, each missed appointment is a slot that could have been used to care for another patient. The NHS App is a simple, secure and convenient way for patients to stay on top of their care. It allows users to manage appointments, receive reminders, check test results, and manage prescriptions – all in one place and at no cost. Patients receive timely reminders and updates directly to their phone, with push notifications helping ensure appointments are not forgotten during busy periods. If plans do change, the app also allows patients to check details and rearrange appointments quickly – helping to free up that slot for someone else who may be waiting for care. Denise Smith, Chief Operating Officer at DBTH, said: “School holidays and Bank Holidays are often when routines change, and we can sometimes see more missed appointments as a result. “If patients are unable to attend their appointment, they are encouraged to let the service know as soon as possible or rearrange it using the NHS App. This allows that time to be offered to another patient who needs it. “Downloading the app is a simple step, but it makes a real difference – helping patients stay on track with their care and supporting services to make the best use of available appointments.” The app also supports more efficient use of NHS resources, helping to reduce reliance on printed letters and postage, while improving communication with patients. These savings can be reinvested directly into frontline services. While health professionals are encouraging digital uptake, traditional methods – such as letters and text messages – will remain in place for those who need them. The aim is to offer more choice and make it easier for people to access care in a way that suits them. The NHS App is free and available to anyone aged 13 or over who is registered with a GP in England. It can be downloaded via the App Store (iOS) and Google Play (Android), and takes just minutes to set up. To find out more or to get started, visit: dbth.nhs.uk/patients-visitor…