Do You Know Which NHS Service To Use?
16th of July, 2020
NHS Chorley and South Ribble NHS Commissioning Group
Do you know which health service to use?
With a number of healthcare services available, it can be difficult to know which service is best for you if you become ill. However, choosing the right care for your need can help to reduce demand on NHS services.
Self care
Coughs, colds and sore throats can be treated at home with a well-stocked medicine cabinet. Stock up with medicines at home so you are prepared in case symptoms develop, and remember, if you have been prescribed medications, it’s important to complete the course and comply with the directions given.
NHS 111
If you are unwell but are unsure which service you need, NHS 111 is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The trained advisors can advise you on the most appropriate and available service for your need.
Your local pharmacist
Your local pharmacist can give you advice and treatment for many common minor illnesses, such as a painful cough, runny nose, headaches and diarrhoea. They can also offer confidential consultations without the need for an appointment. Many pharmacies are often open late and at weekends.
GP
Make an appointment with your GP surgery if you have an illness that won’t go away, and is not an emergency. GPs can provide a range of services by appointment for issues like back pain, stomach ache, ear pain and vomiting.
 If you think you need to see a GP out of hours, call NHS 111. The trained operator will advise you on the most appropriate service for your need and, if necessary, will arrange for an out of hours doctor or nurse to call you to make an appointment with an out of hours GP at Chorley Hospital or Royal Preston Hospital.
Urgent care centres
If you need urgent care for a minor injury or illness, integrated urgent care centres are now available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at Royal Preston Hospital and Chorley and South Ribble Hospital. GPs, nurses and advanced nurse practitioners at the centres can treat illnesses and injuries such as strains, cuts and sprains.
999 and emergency departments
999 and emergency departments are for patients with serious, life threatening injuries and illnesses, such as severe bleeding that cannot be stopped, breathing difficulties including choking or allergic reactions, heart attacks or strokes and loss of consciousness.
Chorley and South Ribble Hospital Emergency Department is open 8am - 8pm, seven days a week. Royal Preston Hospital Emergency Department is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Think carefully before dialling 999 or going to an emergency department as there may be another local health service available to you that is more appropriate for your need.
Remember, if you are unsure which service to use, call NHS 111 any time of the day or night.