FAMILY doctors in Somerset have issued a Christmas and New Year message to members of the public – dial the NHS 111 number.
Their message is aimed at those who do not know who to call if they become ill overnight or at the weekend, where to find an out-of-hours pharmacy or emergency contraception, or where to turn if essential medication runs out over the holiday.
Dr Ed Ford, a Minehead GP and chairman of Somerset Clinical Commissioning Group said: “As a doctor I still find some people unsure what to do or where to go when they become ill, particularly over public holidays like Christmas and the New Year.
He said GP practices can now provide pre-booked appointments up to 8pm at night, and added: “People should call 111 when they need health advice or medical treatment quickly and cannot wait for a GP appointment.”
NHS 111 is available 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year and the number is free to call from home or mobile phones. Phone NHS 111 if:
* Medical help is needed fast but it is not a 999 emergency.
* It looks possible that A&E or other NHS urgent care is needed.
* There is doubt over who to call for medical help, or if the person is not registered with a GP practice.
* Health information or reassurance is needed about what to do next.
NHS 111 is manned by trained advisers who will ask questions to find out what help is needed.
People should call the ambulance service on 999 for a life-threatening emergency, like a stroke, heart attack, severe loss of blood or loss of unconsciousness.
To find out more about NHS 111 visit the website www.nhs. uk/111.