From 1 July 2026, changes to NHS funding arrangements mean GP practices may incur charges for some SMS text messages sent to patients.
Across the NHS, practices are being encouraged to make greater use of digital communication methods such as the NHS App. Whilst we fully support this direction of travel, some of the functionality required to replace SMS messaging is not yet fully integrated with our clinical systems.
To help reduce unnecessary NHS messaging costs and ensure resources can continue to be directed towards patient care, the GP Partners have agreed that we should increase the number of patient email addresses recorded on our system. Email communication is free to the NHS and will allow us to continue communicating efficiently with patients where appropriate.
Patient Email Campaign
On 12 June 2026, we launched a patient communication campaign asking patients to provide or confirm their email address and communication preferences.
The response has been fantastic, and we would like to thank all patients who have taken the time to complete the questionnaire.
We have now received thousands of responses and are currently working through them. Each questionnaire is being reviewed and the email address manually added to the patient’s medical record where appropriate. This is a significant piece of work for our team, so we appreciate your patience whilst this process is completed.
Why Are We Collecting Email Addresses?
Having an up-to-date email address allows us to communicate with patients in a more cost-effective way and helps reduce our reliance on SMS text messaging.
Email may be used, where appropriate, for:
- Appointment information
- Health recalls and invitations
- Practice updates and service information
- Other communications relating to your care
Patients can update their communication preferences at any time by contacting the practice.
Your Communication Preferences
We will only use email addresses that have been provided and confirmed by patients.
As part of our recent communication questionnaire, patients were asked to confirm that the email address supplied was current and that they were happy for the practice to contact them by email regarding their healthcare and practice services.
Patients remain free to change their communication preferences at any time by contacting the practice.
Providing an email address does not prevent us from contacting you by telephone, letter, SMS or other appropriate methods where necessary.
Do You Use the NHS App?
The NHS App is becoming an increasingly important way for patients to access NHS services and receive communications.
If you do not currently use the NHS App, we encourage you to find out more about its benefits and how to get started.
Easy with the NHS App – The Grove Medical Group
Thank you for supporting the practice as we make these changes to ensure NHS resources are used as effectively as possible.