Digital Help and Online Services

Welcome

More and more NHS services are now available online, making it easier and faster for you to get the care or advice you need.

At Heaton Medical Centre, we want to support all our patients to make the most of these digital services, whether you’re confident online or just getting started.

If you’re not sure how to use online services, don’t worry, we’re here to help.

What You Can Do Online

With just a few clicks, you can:

  • Book or cancel GP appointments
  • Request repeat prescriptions
  • Access parts of your health record
  • Ask about a medical problem via eConsult
  • Get NHS health advice anytime, anywhere

These services are quick, safe and secure and available from your phone, tablet or computer.

Getting Started

1. The NHS App

The easiest way to access online services is through the NHS App.
You can:

  • Order repeat prescriptions
  • See test results
  • Check your vaccine status
  • Check your medical record
  • Get health advice tailored to you
Learn how to download and set up the NHS App

Introduction To The NHS App

2. eConsult

Use our secure online form to tell us about your symptoms or ask a question, without needing to call.

We’ll respond by phone, text or email, usually by the end of the next working day.

Start an eConsult

Need Help Using These Services?

Don’t worry we’re here for you, online or offline.

If you:

  • Don’t have a device or internet access
  • Struggle with using technology
  • Prefer to speak with someone face-to-face

…we’ve got local support to help you get online with confidence.

Community Support

  • Bolton Libraries – Digital Helpers
    Free one-to-one sessions at your local library, bookable by phone or in person (01204 332853) (boltondes.org.uk, startpoint.org.uk)
  • Tea & T’internet drop-ins at Central, Farnworth, Little Lever, and more: get friendly help with your device and enjoy a cuppa (boltondes.org.uk)
  • Halliwell Digital Drop-In
    (Wed & Thu, 9:30–11:30 am, St Paul’s Community Centre, Halliwell Road, BL1 8BP)
    Bring your smartphone, tablet or laptop; receive friendly help and breakfast toast while learning the basics (letskeepboltonmoving.org)
  • Bolton Digital, Employment & Skills (DES)
    • Borrow a device via the Digital Lending Library
    • Get free 20 GB data SIMs (if you’re low-income)
    • Use drop-ins and one-on-one sessions across Bolton (boltondes.org.uk)
  • Digital Champions Network
    Volunteers across Bolton, will help you gain confidence with devices – contact Bolton Council to request support (bolton.gov.uk)

Contact the Surgery

If you need further help, call our reception team on 01204 843677, by emailing reception on gmicb-bol.heaton.medical@nhs.net, or pop in.

We can:

  • Provide tech help in-person or over the phone
  • Talk you through downloading and setting up the NHS App or eConsult
  • Help you create an NHS App proxy account for carers

Other Useful Resources

  • Recycle‑IT!: Refurbished laptops/phones at low cost – visit the Market Place (Bolton town centre) (boltondes.org.uk)
  • Bolton UCAN Centres: Free public computers & internet, plus friendly help across our area (boltonathome.org.uk)
  • Bolton College Digital Skills Courses: Free beginner courses in Farnworth Library and other centres starting June – September 2025 (boltoncollege.ac.uk)
  • Watch out for a Digital Programme of events happening across Bolton this next year

How to Use This Support

  1. Phone the surgery if you’d like to be walked through the NHS app setup or need a proxy account.
  2. Pop into your local library or drop-in session. No appointment needed and ask for help with your device.
  3. Borrow a device or get a free data SIM through DES if you need ongoing access.
  4. Let us know if you’d like a printed guide or community signposting; we’d be happy to hand it out during your visit.

“With friendly, local help right on your doorstep and us ready to support you, we hope you feel empowered to use online services at Heaton Medical Centre.“

Top Tips & FAQs

It’s easy! Download the NHS App from the App Store or Google Play. You’ll need a form of ID (like a passport or driving licence) and access to your email.
If you’re stuck, we can help you register in person at the surgery.
Yes. All NHS digital services meet strict security and privacy standards. Your information is protected and only accessible to you and the healthcare professionals involved in your care.
Yes. You can use the NHS App on a tablet or computer by visiting: www.nhsapp.service.nhs.uk
Or you can continue to manage your care by phone. Just call our reception team as normal.
Absolutely. A trusted family member or carer can help you set things up or even manage your appointments and prescriptions on your behalf with your permission. Ask us about setting up a proxy account for the NHS App.
That’s okay! Online services are there if you want them, but you can always contact us by phone or in person.

Useful Links