Boots UK is partnering with online GP consultation provider Doctor Care Anywhere (DCA) in a pilot that will see prescriptions sent electronically to Boots branches “within moments” after an appointment.

The pharmacy multiple said it was piloting the service in 20 stores across central London. While it has its own service for electronic NHS prescriptions, this is the first time Boots has used an electronic provider to dispense private prescriptions.

Boots UK pharmacy director Richard Bradley said: “We know our patients want convenient, simple solutions to manage and take control of their health.

“This new service makes for a modern pharmacy experience, using digital technology to seamlessly link GP consultations and prescriptions with out pharmacies.”

DCA managing director Dr Bayju Thakar said the move was a “major step” in changing how the UK pharmacy market works, arguing that it would “make it a more patient-led experience, enabling people to decide where their prescriptions should be fulfilled in the swiftest and most efficient way”.

Dr Thakar said it would give patients greater power and help pharmacies “manage stock controls more effectively.”

“I believe that this is the best of pharmacy convenience at work,” he said.

Boots has invested in a number of initiatives using digital technology over the past months, including its NHS prescription app, express pick up lanes for prescriptions and prescription lockers.

It said it planned to introduce a number of new services and “digital-led solutions” throughout 2020.