Glossary

NHS App - Run and owned by the NHS, it is a free app that gives anyone aged 13 and over in England and the Isle of Man access to a range of online health services. It can be downloaded to a smartphone or tablet from the App Store or Google Play Store.

NHS account - A secure account patients use for NHS online services. Patients can log into their account on the NHS App on a smartphone or tablet, or through a web browser on a computer. Both routes give access to the same services.

NHS login - The service that allows people to access a range of health and care websites and apps with one set of login details (their NHS account details).

Biometrics - Some devices, and apps used on them, can be unlocked using a physical characteristic instead of a password, such as a fingerprint, face or iris identification.

GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) - The legal framework that governs how personal data is collected, stored and used.

Linkage key/passphrase - A unique code provided by a GP surgery to securely link a patient's NHS login account to their medical record.

ODS code (Organisation Data Service code) - A unique code that identifies a GP surgery. Also referred to as an Organisation Code or Practice ID.

Patient Access app - A separate third-party app offering online GP NHS services.

Personal data - Any information that could identify a person, such as their name, date of birth, address, NHS number or medical record.

Proxy access/linked account – Allow people to use the NHS App to manage health services on behalf of someone they care for, if they are both registered at the same GP surgery, with the surgery's permission.

Two‑factor authentication (security code) - A security step where a one‑time code is sent to an email or phone number to confirm the person logging in is who they say they are.