Most of us prefer not to spend our time waiting in A&E, especially if we have kids in tow. Depending on why you’re there, you might feel bored, anxious, scared, frustrated, angry and wishing that you could be anywhere else in the world.
But there is a better option if you or a family member has a minor health problem. Use the NHS 111 service. All you have to do is pick up the phone or visit the website and you’ll get the health advice you need faster.
In this blog, we’ll be explaining what the NHS 111 service is, why you should choose it and how it works.
What is the NHS 111 service?
The NHS 111 service is the telephone number from the NHS. It makes it easier for you to get the medical help you need, 24 hours a day seven days per week. You can also access the service online by visiting the website.
Whenever you need advice or medical treatment quickly and you cannot wait for an appointment with your GP or you’re not sure what to do, you can call the number for instant help.
It’s an ideal solution if you’re suffering from a minor ailment such as a cough, cold, seasonal allergy, head lice, earache, minor skin condition, vomiting, constipation and cold sores.
However, the NHS 111 service isn’t a replacement for the emergency 999 number. If you need emergency medical treatment, you must call 999.
Why use the NHS 111 service?
When you use the NHS 111 service instead of going to A&E, you’ll avoid making an unnecessary and (often uncomfortable) trip to the hospital and get the help you need faster. This makes it especially ideal for busy families, especially those with young children.
By choosing this service, you’ll help ease the pressure on hospitals, reduce hospital waiting times and ensure those who urgently need emergency medical care can receive it faster.
Should the health advisor decide you need a face-to-face consultation, over the counter or prescription medication, you’ll know that you have a friendly face waiting for you at your local branch of Whitworth. It’s convenient, efficient and easy.
How to get help with the NHS 111 service
If you need help with a health problem, simply pick up the phone and dial 111 or visit the NHS 111 website.
You’ll speak to a fully trained advisor who will assess what service you need and connect you to a local nurse, emergency dentist, pharmacist or GP, arrange a face-to-face appointment if needed or give you self-care advice.
If you need a face to face or remote consultation, you’ll be referred by your call advisor. They will make a digital referral to a convenient pharmacy, such as Whitworths. We provide a CPCS service (community pharmacist consultation service) where you can receive pharmacist advice and treatment for your minor illness or collect an urgent supply of previously prescribed medicines.
Summary
Instead of racing off to your local A&E when you have a health problem, use the NHS 111 service. You’ll access the help you and your family need quickly, avoid long queues and save the NHS money.
Find out more about our minor ailments service here or visit the NHS 111 service website here.
