Health advice made available on TV

A new digital TV channel has been launched for patients to access health information and advice from the comfort of their own home.

NHS 24 is also using the system to pilot a scheme where patients can book appointments with their GP.

The channel, available through Freesat, Sky and Virgin, gives people who do not have the internet at home the opportunity to access health advice and information on local services.

It will feature information from NHS 24, NHS inform and Care Information Scotland web services.

Heath Secretary Nicola Sturgeon said: "We want to ensure that more people in Scotland can access health information and advice where and when they need it, particularly those who need it most.

"Many Scots, including those living in our more deprived communities and older people, do not have access to the internet at home. Now they can access this information, quickly and easily through their televisions."

She added: "The NHS doesn't stand still. This is a fantastic example of how we are constantly updating the way that patients interact with the NHS to make sure that we deliver a top-quality service."

Lynne Huckerby, NHS 24's head of health information services, said: "The ability to get good quality health information is a right that everyone should have and by investing in this new service, we hope that we are opening up access to even more people."

It is hoped the system may allow patients to order repeat prescriptions in the future.