NELFT is pleased to introduce Harper, a new artificial intelligence (AI) virtual agent designed to make managing appointments faster, easier, and more convenient.

Harper is a text-based virtual assistant that allows the user to view upcoming appointments, request appointment changes, including cancellations or rescheduling. Available on selected service pages, Harper provides a more efficient way to interact with services without the need for a phone call.

Harper can be accessed directly through the NELFT website by clicking the pink ‘Chat now’ button located at the bottom right of the service pages.

Key information will need to be provided when interacting with the virtual agent. This is a standard security requirement even if a patient is on Trust premises. The virtual agent will ask for either of the following:  

• NHS Number and date of birth or
• First name, surname, date of birth and postcode 

Initially Harper is being trialled with the following four services: 

• Redbridge 0-19 Universal Children's Services
• Adult Muskelosceletal Services (MSk) Havering, Barking and Dagenham
• Havering 0-19 children's service
• Barking and Dagenham Children and Families Health Service

Colette Avery, Operational Lead for Havering 0-19 Children’s Services said: 
 
"Digital innovation like Harper represents a vital step forward in making our services more accessible and responsive. By simplifying appointment management, we’re empowering patients to take greater control of their healthcare journey quickly, securely, and on their own terms." 

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