Leighton Hospital will be sending most outpatient appointment and clinic letters digitally via the NHS App and text message from September 2026.

Patients who would prefer to continue receiving paper letters will need to let Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust know.

The move is part of the Trust's 'Digital First' patient communications approach, aiming to improve the speed and reliability of patient communications, while keeping patient choice, safety and accessibility at the heart of the change.​

Importantly, digital first does not mean digital only. Patients who need or prefer paper letters will still be able to receive them, and some communications will continue to be sent by post where this is safer or more appropriate.

Digital messages can often reach patients more quickly and reliably than post, helping patients receive important information in time and reducing the impact of postal delays.

Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust 'Digital First' patient communications approach, aiming to improve the speed and reliability of patient communications (Photo: MCHFT).

The new approach also supports a better patient experience by giving patients more ways to access their hospital information. ​

Patients who are less confident online, or who support someone else with appointments, will still be able to access help and request paper letters if needed.

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Patients who would like to continue receiving paper letters will be able to request this in a number of ways, including through the Trust's Digital First webpage, by calling 01270 904446, by email or by speaking to staff when attending an appointment. ​

The Trust has created a dedicated email inbox for queries at [email protected].

It will also provide clear information and support for patients who are less confident using digital services, including signposting to help and guidance as part of the wider communications campaign.​

Paper letters will still be sent where needed, including for patients under 18, patients where the Trust does not hold a mobile phone number, and where paper communications are safer or more appropriate.

Breast screening letters will continue to be sent by paper​.