A NEW programme helping health staff and patients in Wales access their medical information online has been announced.

Health secretary Vaughan Gething has announced £3 million will be used to launch the new project.

“Having the skills and motivation to access digital health services can help people better manage their conditions, whilst helping to reduce the burden on under pressure NHS services,” he said.

“The National Survey for Wales 2017-18 showed that 60 per cent of people in Wales aged 75 and over and 26 per cent of disabled people are digitally excluded. These people are also more likely to access health and social care services than the rest of the population.

"It is vital we improve their ability to access digital services.”

And leader of the house with responsibility for digital Julie James said: “Improving digital literacy can have a significant impact on improving health outcomes for people by giving them more control to manage their own conditions and improve their wellbeing.

"Developing the basic digital skills of citizens in Wales is a priority for this government and we know those more likely to access health and social care services are often those least likely to engage with technology."