People across the Midlands are being urged to use NHS 111 online as their first port of call for non-emergency medical advice over the Easter bank holiday weekend (3–6 April).

With health services expected to be busy and resident doctors due to start industrial action for six days from 7am on 7 April, NHS clinicians are encouraging the public to understand the best ways to access care so that urgent and emergency services remain available for those who need them most.

Patients are also advised to attend any planned appointments unless they have been contacted to reschedule.

Vijay Rawal, Regional Medical Director for Primary Care for NHS England – Midlands said:

“The Easter weekend and the days that follow are always a busy time for the health service and with the addition of industrial action we want all those that need to be seen to make sure they’re accessing the part of the NHS that’s best for their health condition.

“Hospitals and primary care across the region will do everything they can to minimise disruption to services and ensure as much planned care as possible continues for patients.

“The NHS is still here for you.  In an emergency always call 999 but for urgent needs NHS 111 online can get you to the best place based on your symptoms.  If you would normally contact your GP continue to do so or speak to your pharmacist who can help with most common health conditions.

“We know that Easter is a busy time for all those working in the health service and we remain grateful to all the NHS staff, including those resident doctors who are not taking strike action, for working extra hours to maintain services for patients.”

Call 999 if you or someone else experiences:

• chest pain or a heavy pressure or squeezing sensation in the chest, which may indicate a heart attack
• face drooping on one side, which may be a sign of stroke
• difficulty breathing
• heavy bleeding that will not stop
• seizures
• sudden and rapid swelling of the eyes, lips, throat or tongue

NHS111

NHS 111 online works in the same way as the 111 phone service and is already widely used by people seeking quick advice on how to access the care they need.

It can arrange a call back from a trained clinician or nurse, book an appointment at A&E, or provide direct medical advice. In addition, it can:

• find out where to get help for your symptoms if you are not sure what to do
• access general health information and advice
• get an emergency supply of a prescribed medicine
• request a repeat prescription
• book an emergency dental appointment

It can be accessed at www.111.nhs.uk or through the NHSApp

Pharmacists

Your community pharmacist can provide advice and treatment for a range of minor conditions, including:

• sinusitis
• sore throat
• earache
• infected insect bites and stings
• impetigo
• shingles
• uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) in women

To find your nearest pharmacy, visit www.nhs.uk/find-a-pharmacy