Almost two-thirds of NHS consultants say they would consider working for the new NHS Online hospital when it launches next year, according to a new poll.
The survey of nearly 300 consultants and specialist doctors found 60% would be willing to take on NHS Online shifts in addition to their current NHS roles — far more clinicians than the service will require. Almost half of respondents (48%) said they could offer at least four hours a week. Common motivations included the opportunity to deliver care in innovative ways, greater flexibility, and the chance to improve patient experience.
NHS Online is slated to begin seeing patients next year and is projected to deliver up to 8.5 million virtual appointments and assessments in its first three years, roughly four times the volume handled by an average NHS trust. The service will use the NHS App for triage and offer video consultations with specialist clinicians, connecting patients across England with experts more quickly.
At launch NHS Online will treat nine common conditions, initially including menopause and prostate problems; its remit has already been widened to cover recurring urinary tract infections and suspected polycystic ovaries, expanding the number of patients who can access care digitally.
Professor Stella Vig, National Clinical Director for Elective Care at NHS England and a consultant surgeon, welcomed the high level of clinical support and said the service will change how planned care is delivered by giving patients the option of remote specialist appointments from anywhere in the country. She highlighted that many consultations will be carried out by video or telephone, making care quicker and more convenient while still expanding the range of conditions the service can treat.
Health Minister Zubir Ahmed said the initiative aims to reduce long waits and unnecessary travel by using technology to speed up diagnosis and treatment. He emphasised that NHS Online is intended to work alongside, not replace, face-to-face services — improving access for patients and offering staff new flexible working opportunities while preserving in-person care for those who need it.
Announced by the Prime Minister in September 2025, NHS Online will not replace traditional outpatient pathways. GPs will be able to offer patients NHS Online when making referrals for specialist care. Patients accessing the service will be seen via the NHS App by clinicians located anywhere in England, while tests, scans and procedures will continue at local sites. Clinicians will be able to triage and review records remotely and may provide some care outside standard hours.
The model aims to speed referrals and follow-up, free up in-person appointments for patients who need them most, and help reduce waiting lists. NHS Online supports the Government’s digital ambitions set out in the 10 Year Health Plan and is being designed with input from patients, specialists and other experts to ensure it meets needs, follows best practice and maintains high standards of care. Feedback from the consultant survey and wider staff engagement will be used to shape the final service before launch.
