NHS trials 'artificial intelligence app' to replace 111
NHS chiefs are to run a trial using an “artificial intelligence app” as an alternative to the 111 helpline.
NHS is to trial a new 'robot' app alternative to 111 helpline
More than 1.2 million people living in London will take part in the six-month experiment.
Instead of speaking to a human, people will type their ailments into a mobile phone app which will decide how urgent their medical needs are.
The app, created by London-based company Babylon, will then automatically respond with further questions to get more details.
When Should you call NHS 111?
It will use a database of symptoms and illnesses to filter through billions of possibilities before advising the user what to do next.
The scheme will start at the end of this month and is aimed at speeding up advice and saving vital NHS funds.
More than 1.2 million people living in London will take part in the six-month experiment
Currently every call to the non-emergency line is estimated to cost the NHS between £12 and £16.
NHS 111, which is staffed by non-medical professionals, has also been heavily criticised for sending too many people to A&E.