Weight scales depicting weight loss management

NHS to use four new digital platforms to expand weight management support

The NHS will be able to offer online weight management services using four digital platforms following recommendations from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).

To qualify for the new services, patients will have to meet the criteria for accessing weight management medication – i.e., have at least one weight-related comorbidity and a BMI of 35kg/m2 or more.

Following a clinical assessment, patients will then receive support from a multidisciplinary team of health professionals via the platforms Liva, Oviva, Roczen or Second Nature. Liva is available now to the NHS while the rest still require the relevant digital approvals from NHS England.

NICE estimates that up to 48,000 people could access the services and 145,000 clinical hours could be saved as a result.

Early evidence suggests that, for the digital platforms, weight loss is comparable at two years to that seen after face-to-face care, although evidence will be collected over the next four years to determine the cost-effectiveness of the apps.

                                                                      Video credit: Canva

The digital programmes also allow for the prescribing of weight loss drugs such as semaglutide or liraglutide, however this must be delivered in conjunction with healthy eating and exercise.

Access to weight management services varies throughout the country, with some people living in areas where there is no service at all and others in regions with long waiting lists.

The introduction of digital services will help narrow this health inequality and those who either cannot or would rather not travel for appointments.

Health secretary, Steve Barclay, said: “Technology is transforming healthcare and helping to cut NHS waiting times – one of the government’s five priorities.”

He continued: “The use of apps in weight management services will improve access to support that, alongside life-changing drugs, can help tackle obesity – which costs the NHS billions every year and is the second biggest cause of cancer.”

A 10-day consultation on the four platforms has been opened by NICE.

Image credit: iStock

NHE

NHE Issue 102

Join the conversation shaping the future of healthcare.

Click below to read more!

More articles...

View all
Online conferences

Presenting

2025 Online Conferences

In partnership with our community of health sector leaders responsible for delivering the UK's health strategy across the NHS and the wider health sector, we’ve devised a collaborative calendar of conferences and events for industry leaders to listen, learn and collaborate through engaging and immersive conversation. 

All our conferences are CPD accredited, which means you can gain points to advance your career by attending our online conferences. Also, the contents are available on demand so you can re-watch at your convenience.

National Health Executive Podcast

Listen to industry leaders on everything within healthcare

Whether it's the latest advancements in medical technology, healthcare policies, patient care innovations, or the challenges facing healthcare providers, we cover it all.

 

Join us as we engage with top healthcare professionals, industry leaders, and policy experts to bring you insightful conversations that matter.