Public should continue to use NHS 111 online for swift health advice
The NHS is reminding the public to continue to use 111 online for health advice ahead of the August bank holiday weekend.
Local NHS services experienced a surge in demand over the Jubilee bank holiday weekend – with attendances at A and E departments in the North West having increased by 15 per cent since 2019.
Ahead of the long weekend, local health chiefs have encouraged the public to continue to use services in the usual way and to come forward for care as soon as they need it.
The NHS’ 111 online service is already popular with people who want quick advice about the best options for getting the care they need; including a clinician calling the patient back to discuss their symptoms in more detail as well as refer them to a wide range of services across their area where appropriate.
Local pharmacies remain open across the North West, with limited opening times over the Bank Holiday for those people needing to pick up prescriptions or for other health advice.
NHS England North West regional medical director, Dr Michael Gregory, said: “We are extremely grateful to the dedicated teams across the NHS in the North West who will be working hard over the coming bank holiday weekend to ensure all those that need care receive it.
“The NHS 111 online service is the most convenient way for people to access care helping to direct them to the right service quickly as well as providing medical advice.
“And it remains imperative that the public dial 999 in an emergency or consider checking via 111 online if you think you may need to attend A&E.
“So if you are unwell this weekend, please don’t delay and come forward for care as soon as you need it – the NHS is here for you. “
NHS 111 online can help you with:
- where to get help for your symptoms, if you’re not sure what to do
- how to find general health information and advice
- where to get an emergency supply of your prescribed medicine
- how to get a repeat prescription
- get emergency dental appointments
You should ring 999 if you experience:
- signs of a heart attack like pain like a heavy weight in the centre of your chest
- signs of stroke such as your face dropping on one side
- difficulty breathing
ENDS
Pharmacy opening times over the Bank Holiday be found at:
Lancashire and south Cumbria: https://www.healthierlsc.co.uk/pharmacy
Cheshire and Merseyside: https://www.cheshireandmerseyside.nhs.uk/posts/august-bank-holiday-2022/