We try to keep our GP appointments for patients with more serious health problems. Before you book an appointment to see a doctor, please consider whether an appointment with an advanced nurse practitioner or practice nurse might be appropriate. They can help you with a wide range of medical problems. Our receptionists can help you decide which is the right person for you to see.

Self Care

If you have a cough, cold, headache or other minor ailment try treating yourself at home first. Find out more about treatments for common minor ailments by visiting the Treatment Room.

Please remember that self-care for common conditions can help free up our GPs’ time, making it easier to get an appointment when you have a more serious condition.

Your Pharmacist Can Help Too

Pharmacists are highly trained health professionals and can give you confidential health advice for a range of common illnesses and complaints.

Don’t wait for a GP appointment for coughs, colds, aches and pains. Just call your local pharmacy a call or drop in – there’s no need to make an appointment.

Your pharmacists can also help you decide if you need to see a doctor or nurse.

Find out more about free advice and medication from Pharmacy First.

NHS 111

111 is the free NHS non-emergency number.

You should use the NHS 111 service if you urgently need medical help or advice but it’s not a life-threatening situation.

Call 111 if:

• You need medical help fast but it’s not a 999 emergency
• You think you need to go to A&E or need another NHS urgent care service
• You don’t know who to call or you don’t have a GP to call
• You need health information or reassurance about what to do next

A&E

A&E is for life-threatening accidents and emergencies only. Before you go there, ask yourself, “Is it a real emergency?”

If not, please consider using other local health services before you visit A&E.