What is the MyCare.scot app?
MyCare.scot app, currently in its nationwide rollout phase, serves as the cornerstone of the Scottish Government’s Digital Health and Care Strategy. Often described as the "Digital Front Door," it is designed to move beyond traditional health management by integrating social care into a single, secure platform.
Core Functionality & Rollout Strategy
Incremental Launch: Following a pilot in NHS Lanarkshire for dermatology outpatients in late 2025, the national rollout began in April 2026.
A "Secure Door": The app utilizes ScotAccount, providing users with a single digital identity to securely access sensitive records and manage personal information across different public services.
First-Wave Features: Initially, users can view hospital appointments, receive digital communications from clinicians, and update their personal details in real-time.
Why it Matters for Housing and Independent Living
The app is more than a clinical tool; it is a vital component for proactive care in the home.
Integration with Social Care: A key priority for 2026 is the technical onboarding of social work and social care use cases. This allows housing providers and care workers to align more closely with medical teams, reducing "no access" visits and improving discharge-from-hospital flows.
Supporting Autonomy: By giving citizens "data in their hands," the app supports the goals found in Bield’s Roadmap for Independent Living, empowering older adults to manage their conditions and care schedules from their own homes.
Reducing System Pressure: Features like the Service Finder and Digital Mailbox are intended to decrease administrative burdens on staff, allowing more time for face-to-face care and reducing missed appointments.
Future Outlook (2027–2030)
As part of the multi-year delivery plan, the app will continue to evolve:
2027: Expected introduction of proxy access for carers and parents, along with full integration of digital test results.
2028: National priority services, including mental health and cancer care pathways, are slated for full integration.
2030: The ultimate vision of a holistic digital health and care record for every citizen is expected to be complete.