Bank holidays are typically the busiest periods for the NSH 111 service, meaning it can take longer to get through to a health advisor on the phone.
Highlighting the demand last Easter, we triaged nearly 29 thousand patients. In comparison, that number fell to 14 thousand the following weekend.
The online service will go through the same questions and produce the same outcomes but without the wait. You can find it at 111.nhs.uk or through the NHS app.
NHS 111 is a service for non-urgent health concerns. It can help with:
- general health information and advice
- information for your symptoms if you’re not sure what to do
- advice for an existing medical condition
- prescription or medicine information
NHS 111 online is not suitable for patients under five years old. If this is the case. It’s recommended you still dial 111.
Paul Johnston, ICC Service Delivery Manager, said, “Over the last two years, some of the top ten reasons for people calling us over the Easter bank holiday include sore throats, hoarse voices and earaches. Having a stocked medicine cabinet means you can relieve these symptoms easily.
“Despite ensuring we are staffed appropriately, waiting times on the phone can be longer for help. You can skip the queue by using the online service and even receive a call back from a clinician if required.”
If you require emergency medical help, please contact 999.