Nearly two‑thirds of NHS consultants are interested in working for the NHS’s new online hospital when it launches next year, according to a new survey revealing strong clinical support for the revolutionary virtual service.
The poll of almost 300 consultants and specialist doctors found that 60% would like to work for NHS Online alongside their current roles. This level of interest significantly exceeds the number of clinicians required to run the service in its early years.
Nearly half (48%) of respondents said they would be willing to contribute at least four hours per week, citing the opportunity to innovate in patient care, work more flexibly, and improve patient experience as top motivations.
NHS Online is expected to transform access to specialist care by delivering up to 8.5 million virtual appointments and assessments in its first three years – four times more than a typical NHS trust.
The service will connect patients to specialist clinicians across England via the NHS App, offering:
- Digital triage
- Video consultations
- Faster access to diagnosis and treatment
- Seamless referrals and follow‑up care
The aim is to reduce waiting times, modernise the delivery of specialist services, and ensure patients receive expert care regardless of where they live.
Earlier this year, the NHS confirmed that nine common conditions, including menopause, prostate issues and skin problems, would be treated through NHS Online from launch.
More conditions have now been added, with the service also set to support people with recurring urinary tract infections and suspected polycystic ovaries.
The NHS emphasised that NHS Online will not replace in‑person care. Patients will always be able to choose a traditional referral route and see specialists at a physical healthcare site.
However, by offering a convenient digital alternative, the virtual hospital is expected to reduce waiting lists by freeing up in‑person appointments for those who need or prefer them.
When a GP refers a patient to specialist care, they will be given the option of using NHS Online. Clinicians will be able to:
- Review notes remotely
- Triage cases digitally
- Provide consultations outside standard hours
- Move patients more quickly from referral to diagnosis to treatment
Any required tests, scans or procedures will still take place at local healthcare facilities.
This streamlined model is designed to speed up treatment, reduce unnecessary waiting, and fit healthcare around people’s lives.
Professor Stella Vig, National Clinical Director for Elective Care at NHS England, commented:
“It’s fantastic to see that consultants and specialist doctors are hugely supportive of the NHS’s new online hospital, with nearly two thirds willing to offer their time for this revolutionary service alongside their current roles.
“NHS Online will transform the way we deliver planned care, offering patients the choice to have an online appointment with a specialist anywhere in England.
“The service will make a real difference to patients’ lives as they’ll be able to choose to use NHS Online and be seen more quickly and conveniently, with many appointments delivered by video or telephone in their own home.
“We’ve also expanded the list of conditions which NHS Online will treat, so that even more patients will be able to benefit when the service launches next year.”
NHS Online is being co‑designed with specialist doctors, patient groups and clinical experts to ensure the service uses the latest technology, reflects best practice, and delivers high‑quality care at scale.
Findings from the consultants’ survey, alongside wider engagement with NHS staff, will shape the final design and operational model ahead of launch next year.
First announced by the Prime Minister in September 2025, the virtual hospital is a key element of the Government’s ambition to shift from analogue to digital across the health system as part of the 10 Year Health Plan.
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