According to BBC News, GPs could soon be offering patients Smartphone apps to help manage health conditions.

The Department of Health believe this is the “next step” in providing patients with more control over their health.

For example health apps could help diabetics keep a check on their blood sugar level or patients monitor their blood pressure.

Talks are also on-going to discuss the possibility of GPs prescribing apps to patients that would normally cost the individual money to purchase.

At an event showcasing the best ideas for new and existing health smartphone apps, the Health Secretary Andrew Lansley said: “So many people use apps every day to keep up with their friends, with the news, find out when the next bus will turn up or which train to catch.

“I want to make using apps to track blood pressure, to find the nearest source of support when you need it and to get practical help in staying healthy the norm.

“Information about your health is a service – just like the GP surgeries, Walk-in Centres and hospitals that millions of people access every week. With more information at their fingertips, patients can truly be in the driving seat.

“Innovation and technology can revolutionise the health service, and we are looking at how the NHS can use these apps for the benefit of patients, including how GPs could offer them for free.”

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