A new NHS “app” will not conjure GP appointments out of nowhere, doctors’ leaders have warned.

The app, unveiled yesterday, brings together many of the e-services already available on-line – and adds some extra ones.

Users will be able to use it to make GP appointments and order repeat prescriptions and also for the management of long-term conditions.

They will also be able to indicate their preferences on data-sharing, organ donation and end of life care.

Health secretary Jeremy Hunt claimed it would “revolutionise” the way the public accessed health services.

He said: “I want this innovation to mark the death-knell of the 8am scramble for GP appointments that infuriates so many patients.

“Technology has transformed everyday life when it comes to banking, travel and shopping. Health matters much more to all of us, and the prize of that same digital revolution in healthcare isn’t just convenience but lives improved, extended and saved.

“As the NHS turns 70 and we draw up a long-term plan for the NHS on the back of our £394 million a week funding boost, it’s time to catch up and unleash the power of technology to transform everyday life for patients.”

British Medical Association GP committee chair Dr Richard Vautrey said: “This app has the potential to offer patients who are comfortable using this type of technology another option to contact their practice. In using this it is important to ensure patient confidentiality is protected and develop systems that enable patients are directed to the right course of action or appointment for their condition.

“If developed and tested appropriately, it could also be helpful for those ordering repeat prescriptions or receiving test results. However, it cannot create appointments out of nowhere.”

Royal College of GPs chair Professor Helen Stokes-Lampard said: “Some practices already offer many online services and many have steps in place to adopt new technology but GPs and our team are working flat out to meet patient demand and it is vital that all GP surgeries are provided with the additional support and the resources they need to ensure it is introduced as seamlessly as possible without disruptions to patients or practices.

“Adequate safeguards must be in place to ensure the utmost protection of patients’ personal data, and considering that patient’s medical history will be accessible on individual’s mobile phones on the apps, we need to ensure that the security and reliability of the identity verification processes being used are of the highest international security standards.”