NHS 111
If you are very unwell and you cannot wait until the surgery is open, please call NHS 111 and they can give you advice about what sort of care you need. They are also able to organise an emergency appointment or an ambulance if appropriate. The NHS 111 service is staffed by a team of fully trained advisers supported by experienced nurses, pharmacists and doctors.
NHS 111 is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Calls are free from landlines and mobile phones.
When To Use It
You should use the NHS 111 service if you require urgent medical help but it is not a life threatening situation. Call 111 if:
- You require fast medical assistance but it is not a 999 emergency.
- You think you may need to go to A&E or require another NHS provided urgent care service.
- You are unable to call a GP and/or do not know who to call.
- You require health information or reassurance about the next step.
Accident and Emergency (A&E)
An A&E department (also known as emergency department or casualty) deals with genuine life-threatening emergencies, such as:
- loss of consciousness
- acute confused state and fits that are not stopping
- chest pain
- breathing difficulties
- severe bleeding that cannot be stopped
- severe allergic reactions
- severe burns or scalds
- stroke
- major trauma such as a road traffic accident
Less severe injuries can be treated in urgent care centres or minor injuries units. A&E is not an alternative to a GP appointment.
St Thomas’ Hospital
Westminster Bridge Road,
London,
SE1 7EH
Phone: 020 7188 7188
