Unsure where to seek help? Here’s your guide to getting the right care when you need it.
If you are unwell or injured, it’s important to choose the right service to make sure you get the best treatment as quickly as possible. You may not need to call your GP practice or go to A&E. In this email, I hope to explain the range of local options for accessing health advice and treatment:
Visit your pharmacy first
Pharmacies offer expert advice and treatments for minor illnesses like colds, sore throats and tummy troubles. A number of pharmacies in Essex open late, and no appointment is needed. Many pharmacies are also able to offer treatment and prescription medicine for common conditions, without you needing to see a GP. Visit our website for more information, or visit Find a Pharmacy for all the latest information about opening hours and services near you.
Ask your GP surgery
Did you know your GP surgery offers more than just doctor appointments? Visit this webpage to find out more about your GP surgery team. The GP team is now made up of a wide range of healthcare professionals including specialist nurses, clinical pharmacists, physiotherapists and many more, meaning faster access to the right care.
NHS 111
For urgent health concerns, you can contact NHS 111 by phone or online. NHS111 will direct you to the best place to get help for your symptoms; including your local pharmacy, dentist, GP or A&E if this is necessary.
What’s more, if you do need to see a GP or dentist out of normal opening hours, they will help to organise this for you.
NHS 111 is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- Go to 111.nhs.uk (for people aged 5 and over only)
- Call 111
If you’re Deaf and want to use the phone service, you can use the NHS 111 British Sign Language service.
Emergency and Urgent Care
For life-threatening emergencies visit an Accident and Emergency (A&E) department or call 999. This includes major injuries, chest pains and breathing difficulties, and symptoms of a stroke.
For urgent, non-life-threatening issues such as infections, minor burns, sprains and cuts, visit an urgent care centre or call NHS 111.
| Further help is also available to keep you safe and well this winter |
| Visit nhs.uk: For a complete guide to conditions, symptoms and treatments, including what to do and when to get help visit NHS.uk. The website features useful information about health conditions, medicines, and local services. Find Local Support: Essex Frontline is your one-stop-shop for accessing a wide range of health and wellbeing services in your local community. Sexual Health Services: Our local sexual health services, offer a free, confidential, non-judgmental service, regardless of sex, age, ethnic origin and sexual orientation. Lifestyle Services: Our local lifestyle services support you to make healthier lifestyle choices, such as help to quit smoking, or lose weight. Peace of mind in the event of a power cut: If you are reliant on medical equipment or anything else needing electricity to support your health and wellbeing, sign up the UK Power Network’s Priority Services Register to ensure you receive extra support if you experience a power cut. Find out how to sign up to the Priority Services Register |
SWF Health & Social Care Group 