NHS text message service marks 1,000th patient
More than 1,000 patients in Stoke-on-Trent have signed up to an NHS service that makes use of mobile phones.
The system, called "Flo", after Florence Nightingale, allows people to manage their illnesses through text messaging.
Patients send details such as blood pressure, temperature and pulse in a text message, and receive texts back from a doctor or nurse with advice.
They can also receive reminders to take their medication from Flo.
The service, which was developed by a team at NHS Stoke-on-Trent, recently celebrated its first year in operation.
Project leader Phil O'Connell said: "Florence helps patients take a more active role in their healthcare and gives them the freedom to get on with life."
Former nurse Christine Cartlidge, from Fenton, who sufferers from a lung condition, said: "I think it's one of the most marvellous inventions.
"It's a good warning indicator and it's a big comfort knowing there's someone there when you're poorly."
Mr O'Connell and his team have been invited to meet Health Secretary Andrew Lansley to talk about the future of the project for the whole of the NHS.