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Amazon’s Alexa will be able to answer owners’ health queries as it links up with the NHS
AMAZON’S virtual assistant Alexa is to answer the health queries of its owners thanks to a link- up with the NHS.
Alexa will be able to search the NHS website for information to come up with an answer that is verified by health experts.
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It is designed to help patients who are elderly, blind or otherwise unable to easily use the internet take more control of their healthcare and reduce the burden on the NHS.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock said: “Technology like this is a great example of how people can access reliable, world- leading NHS advice from the comfort of their home, reducing the pressure on our hardworking GPs and pharmacists.
“Through the NHS Long Term Plan we want to embrace the advances in technology to build a health and care system fit for the future.”
Tech experts say by 2020, half of all information searches will be voice-assisted.
Adi Latif, who is registered blind, uses Amazon Alexa and other voice- assisted technology for everyday tasks.
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Adi, 38 of Camden, North London, said: “Convenience is king and it’s brilliant to know I can ask Alexa about illnesses and receive credible, NHS-verified information.
“It cuts out all the searching online, which can be a traumatic experience for many people — especially those who are disabled or not familiar with technology.
“NHS services need to be designed in a way that allows all people, including those who are blind or disabled, to access them from home.”
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