A TV version of a Scots website providing health advice has been formally launched today.
But the new digital channel has already built up an audience of 30,000 viewers per month, since it was launched – in test form – five months ago.
The channel – available through Freesat, Sky and Virgin – has been launched by NHS 24.
App versions of the channel is also available on iPhone, iPad and Android.
The channel offers information from the wesbites of NHS 24, NHS inform and Care Information Scotland.
Helping launch the service, Scots health secretary, Nicola Sturgeon, is quoted in a media release promoting the channel, as saying: “We want to ensure that more people in Scotland can access health information and advice where and when they need it, particularly those who need it most. Many Scots, including those living in our more deprived communities and older people, do not have access to the internet at home. Now they can access this information, quickly and easily through their televisions.
“Since it went live, there have been more than 30,000 contacts a month accessing the channel from their front rooms in Scotland and that is set to increase. We are piloting booking GP appointments and looking at whether repeat prescriptions can be ordered through the channel in future. It is now possible to check on your alcohol intake through your remote and soon a full health check may be available.”
The channel can be accessed through Freesat and Sky (community channel 539) and Virgin Media (home button, interactive number seven).
