Apple rolls out health records on iPhones across the UK

Apple claims users have complete control over which institutions they share their data with and for how long

Apple has teamed up with the NHS to launch its Health Records tool in the UK, allowing patients to view and store their medical details directly on their iPhones. 

The service, which will initially be available at Oxford University and Milton Keynes University hospitals, gives users access to details such as their allergies, vaccinations, lab results and prescriptions via the Health app. 

The aim is to gather medical information in one place to give patients more control. It is also hoped it will allow an already-stretched NHS to provide faster and better treatment. 

Apple claims users have complete control over which institutions they share their data with and for how long. 

Patients are also informed of any changes to their details. For instance, if the results of a blood test are available, a user will get an alert on their phone. 

“We believe people should have access to their health information in the most private and secure way, and we have worked hand in hand with healthcare institutions and organisations to put privacy at the centre of the patient experience," said Kevin Lynch, Apple’s vice president of Technology.

How to access health records on your iPhone

The service has been available in the US since 2018, where it is used by more than 500 healthcare institutions in 11,000 locations. 

To maintain privacy, Apple said it uses an encrypted connection between the user’s iPhone and their hospital or GP. Data is also held on a user’s device, regardless of whether it is later deleted by the healthcare institution. 

“At NHSX, we are committed to giving patients access to their own records so they can take charge of their healthcare,” said Matthew Gould, CEO of NHSX.

“The launch of Health Records on iPhone in the UK is a positive step and joins a number of initiatives across the NHS to put patients in the driving seat.”

It follows the launch of the Apple Watch Series 6 last month, alongside new versions of its iPad, Apple One subscription bundles and a fitness class service to rival Peloton. 

The Series 6 comes with a blood oxygen monitor that uses sensors to measure light reflected off a wearer’s blood. 

Blood oxygen levels are typically used as a measure of fitness and heart health, but the company said it would also investigate whether the indicator as well as the Apple Watch’s heart rate monitor, could be used to detect early signs of influenza and Covid-19.

Apple is working with Seattle’s Brotman Brady Institute for Precision Medicine and the University of Washington on the study.

Healthcare research has been a growing area for the tech giant. Last year, it launched a research app that it said would “advance science” by collecting data from Apple Watch and iPhone users. 

“Health-care providers, insurance companies and businesses are also seeing the benefits of offering Apple Watch,” said Tim Cook at the launch event last month. “They know it can make a big difference in the lives of their patients, customers and employees.”

The company is now gearing up for the highly-anticipated Tuesday launch of its latest iPhone with what is expected to be 5G wireless capability.