When to use NHS Direct

You should use NHS Direct for advice if you are feeling ill or have hurt yourself and are unsure of what to do.

When you call NHS Direct, they will ask you to provide some basic information, including details of any medication you may be taking. If you’re calling on behalf of someone else, you’ll need to provide this information on their behalf.

They will assess your problem and advise you on the best course of action. If you’re feeling unwell at the time of your call, you may be told how you can look after yourself at home, or you may be recommend to see a pharmacist.

If it’s something more serious, you may be advised to see another health professional, such as your doctor. If the problem is very serious, NHS Direct can help you to access the ambulance service.

What they offer:

• Information on local health services and support organisations
• Advice on maintaining a healthy lifestyle
• Information about illnesses, conditions, tests, treatments and operations
• Complex enquiries about medication, e.g. interactions, overdosing, poisoning, etc.
• Information in response to national and local health scares, e.g. swine flu

Why should I use NHS Direct?

Many conditions can often be treated at home with a little bit of self-care. Phoning NHS Direct instead of visiting your doctor or going to hospital is not only a convenient way for you to get the advice you need as quickly and effortlessly as possible, but ensures that other NHS services are available for those who really need them.

NHS Direct online

The website includes an encyclopaedia of conditions, as well as an easy to use body key which can be used to pinpoint symptoms and look at who can help.

*Calls to NHS Direct cost a maximum of 5 pence per minute from a BT landline. Calls from mobiles and other networks may vary. Your service provider may charge a minimum cost per call. For patients’ safety, calls to NHS Direct are recorded.