WE use our phones for banking, internet dating, and getting around – but now you can manage your health from your pocket too.

Redbridge Clinical Commissioning (CCG) wants people in the borough to download the NHS’s new GP Online mobile app to book doctors’ appointments, order repeat prescriptions, and get test results.

After providing your surgery with some photo ID and proof of address you can sign up to the app, which can also be used on tablets and PCs.

According to health bosses 1.7 million Londoners are already signed up to the service, but Redbridge doctors are calling on more people to get involved to save time at GP reception desks.

Barkingside GP and Redbridge CCG chairman Dr Anil Mehta said: “Just as we manage other aspects of our lives online, we can now oversee our health in the same way.

“GP online services is flexible and makes booking an appointment or ordering a repeat prescription convenient, especially for those who lead busy lives.

“I can’t emphasise enough how much everyone can benefit from this fantastic service and I encourage more patients to get involved.”

For more information, see the NHS website. www.nhs.uk/GPonlineservices