Feeling under the weather? Think NHS 111

Local residents with an urgent but non-life-threatening medical concern this winter are being encouraged to use NHS 111 by health commissioners in Southport, Formby and West Lancashire.

NHS Southport and Formby Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and NHS West Lancashire CCG are supporting the national ‘Help Us, Help You’ campaign, focussing on different services over winter, one of which being NHS 111.

NHS 111 is operated by fully trained advisers 24 hours a day, seven days a week who will listen to your medical concerns and, if necessary, arrange for you to speak to relevant healthcare professionals, such as a nurse, doctor or emergency dentist.

You can access the service by dialling 111 or online at www.111.nhs.uk.

Dr Rob Caudwell, local GP and chair of NHS Southport and Formby CCG said: “NHS 111 is a service that all local residents can benefit from if they need health advice. Using 111 can save time that would be spent in a GP practice or walk in centre.

“If you have any mobility issues or are having trouble leaving the house because of your illness, NHS 111 allows you to get help from the comfort of your own home. Staying at home will also limit the spread of germs to vulnerable people in the community.”

NHS 111 will advise you on whether you should book an appointment with your GP or extended access service, give self-care guidance, or direct you to an appropriate, local service if needed.”

Dr John Caine, a local West Lancashire GP and chair at NHS West Lancashire CCG, said: “When you or a loved one falls ill, you want to be able to speak to someone fast.

“By calling NHS 111 you will be put straight through to a trained healthcare professional, who can offer support and advice and direct you to the right care; be that your local pharmacist, walk-in centre or GP, so that we can help us to help you get better fast.”

Whatever the need is, NHS 111 will ensure that you get the right care, from the right person, as quickly as possible.

So, if you think you need urgent medical help, call 111 or visit www.111.nhs.uk.

To find out what services are available in Sefton visit NHS Southport and Formby’s website at: https://www.southportandformbyccg.nhs.uk/. West Lancashire residents please visit the NHS West Lancashire CCG website at: https://www.westlancashireccg.nhs.uk/.

The CCGs are supporting the national winter campaign Help Us Help You.