Connecting your NHS account unlocks the full suite of NHS services within NowPatient. You can order NHS prescriptions through the NHS Online Pharmacy, book GP appointments, and view your GP records, all directly from your NowPatient account. How you connect depends on how you signed up.
If you signed up using NHS Login
Your NHS account is connected automatically, so there's nothing more to do. Your prescriptions and NHS services will activate within around 10 minutes of registration. You'll find them under the NHS Hub section of your account homepage.
If you signed up using Google, Apple or your email address
You can link your NHS account at any time to activate NHS features. Go to your account homepage and locate any NHS service card (for example, the NHS Online Pharmacy Service Card), which will appear locked.
You can now activate the services by selecting one of two methods:
Connect with NHS Login. Sign in using your NHS login credentials on the NHS page that opens, and you'll be returned to NowPatient with all NHS services activated. From that point on, your details sync automatically from your NHS account, so any updates you make there flow straight into NowPatient.
If you don't yet have an NHS login, you can set one up on the NHS website. You'll need a fully verified NHS login account to use it with NowPatient.
Connect with Linkage Keys. Select the button for Linkage Keys and you will be prompted to enter your three linkage codes (also known as linkage keys). These codes protect your NHS records and keep it secure. Once entered, this service will be activated.
You can request your linkage keys by the following a few simple steps:
Contact your GP practice and ask for access to ‘online services’. Tell them you would like your three linkage keys
Wait for your codes. Your GP surgery will send you a letter or email with three codes: a linkage key (or passphrase), an ODS code (or practice ID), and an account ID. Each practice handles these requests differently, with some asking you to complete an online form, while others prefer email or phone
Enter your codes in NowPatient. Go to your account homepage and find the Book GP Appointment Service Card (it will be locked by default). Select the ‘Connect’ button, which will then activate a modal in which you can enter all three codes to unlock the service
Once this is complete, your NHS services will activate within 4 hours.
Tip: The simplest way to request your linkage keys is by email. A downloadable template email is available here to help you make the request.
Important: This is applicable to NHS patients registered in England.