NHS 111 is a service that replaced NHS Direct to make it easier for you to access local NHS healthcare services in England. The purpose of NHS 111 is when medical assistance is required quickly but it not not a 999 emergency.
NHS 111 is a fast and easy to access healthcare services 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Calls are free from landlines and mobile phones.
Call 111 if:
For less urgent health needs, contact family doctor or Pharmacist when they are open.
For immediate, life-threatening emergencies, continue to call 999.
How does it work?
Your call will be answered by a team of trained advisers, supported by experienced nurses and paramedics.
They will take a history from you and ask various questions to assess your symptoms. From this then will then be able to advise you regarding the best course of action.
They may advise you to attend:
If they feel you require urgent assistance they can arrange for an ambulance to be sent to you.