NHS will use AI in its app to route patients to care

The Guardian reports that the NHS will begin using AI in its app to help direct patients to the right care setting. The system will triage users and recommend whether they should seek a GP appointment, go to a pharmacy, or attend A&E. The first stage is expected to reach 200,000 patients over the next year, with nationwide availability planned by April 2028, though health leaders are warning about privacy, digital exclusion, and overstated productivity claims.

Key details: The AI triage tool will start with 200,000 patients over the next year, A nationwide rollout is planned by April 2028, Health leaders want clearer safeguards around privacy, evidence, and digital access.

Why it matters: This is a large public-sector AI deployment where the benefits depend as much on safeguards and access as on the model.