Ministers will today announce the death of the doctor’s letter in a bid to slash NHS postage bills.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting will unveil plans to switch to a ‘digital first’ system, with almost all patient communications made via the NHS app.
The move, agreed as part of next week’s spending review, will mean most patients will no longer receive letters about appointments, check-ups and screening dates.
People unable to use the app will be able to continue receiving a postal service, but only as a ‘last resort’. The Department of Health said the move would lead to the NHS sending out 50 million fewer letters a year, saving £200 million on stamps and envelopes.
However, critics warned it could disadvantage millions of older people who struggle with the latest technology.
