Keir Starmer is set to unveil a groundbreaking “online hospital” initiative during his address at the Labour conference, promising to deliver millions of additional NHS appointments and significantly reduce waiting times.
The Prime Minister will introduce NHS Online, a digital platform designed to connect patients directly with specialist healthcare professionals. Scheduled to launch in 2027, this service aims to provide up to 8.5 million extra NHS consultations within its initial three years, according to government projections.
Speaking in Liverpool, Starmer will emphasize a transformative vision, declaring, “A new era is dawning,” and expressing his hope that future generations will recognize this moment as the turning point when the NHS was revitalized for the challenges ahead.
Accessible via the NHS app, the online hospital will offer patients the choice between virtual consultations and traditional in-person visits at their local healthcare facilities.
Users of the platform will be able to manage prescriptions, receive referrals for diagnostic scans and tests, and obtain expert clinical guidance to help manage their health conditions effectively.
For those requiring physical examinations or procedures, the app will facilitate booking appointments at nearby hospitals, surgical centers, or community diagnostic hubs.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting highlighted that some NHS trusts piloting similar online hospital models have successfully triaged patients within just 48 hours.
Explaining the process on LBC, Streeting said, “When booking a GP appointment through the app, the system may identify that you qualify for NHS Online and redirect you accordingly. In places where this is operational, patients are assessed within two days, which is a significant improvement.”
He noted the 2027 rollout date reflects a commitment to thorough testing and ensuring patient safety before full implementation.
Streeting also shared a personal preference for virtual consultations, stating, “I, like many others, prefer video or phone appointments to avoid taking time off work whenever possible.”
This initiative builds upon existing digital strategies employed by various NHS trusts aimed at shortening wait times and expediting patient access to care and advice.
In his address, Starmer will frame this development as “a pivotal chapter in the NHS’s evolution, empowering patients and embracing innovation.” He will assert, “Reducing waiting times for every individual across the nation-that is true renewal and a Britain that works for everyone.”
Addressing speculation about potential VAT increases on private healthcare, Streeting dismissed the idea, stating on Times Radio, “No, the government has no plans to introduce VAT on private health services.” He added, “I’m not sure where that story originated, but it’s not under consideration.”
Starmer will underscore the importance of ongoing NHS modernization, emphasizing Labour’s duty to prepare the health service for future demands.
He will acknowledge the dedication of NHS staff, saying, “I witness their hard work firsthand through my family, and I celebrate their efforts constantly. Yet, our party’s role extends beyond praise-it’s about driving meaningful improvements.”
Daniel Elkeles, CEO of NHS Providers, described the plan as “an ambitious and promising step forward,” while cautioning that “the advantages must not undermine the stability of essential services that patients continue to depend on.”
