This page is a printable version of: https://www.iow.nhs.uk/our-services/nhs-111/nhs-111.htm
Date: 21 February 2020
NHS 111
What is NHS 111?
It’s a NHS telephone number to help make it easier for you to access local health services. If you live in, or are visiting the Isle of Wight you can now call 111 when you need medical help fast, but it isn’t a 999 emergency.
You will be assessed, given advice and directed straightaway to the local service that can help you best. That could be A&E, an out of hours doctor, a walk-in centre, community nurse, emergency dentist or a late opening chemist.
You can ring the 111 number 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Calls from landlines and mobile phones are free.
When do I use it?
You should use the NHS 111 service if:
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you need medical help fast, but it’s not a 999 emergency;
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you think you need to go to A&E or another NHS urgent care service;
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you don’t know who to call for medical help or you don’t have a GP to call; or
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you require health information or reassurance about what to do next.
For less urgent health needs, you should still contact your GP in the usual way. For immediate, life-threatening emergencies, continue to call 999.
Why should I use it?
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NHS 111 is a fast and easy way to get the right help – wherever you are, and whatever the time.
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It can also help us to free up 999 and local A&E departments so that they can focus on emergency cases.
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If a health professional has given you a specific telephone number to call when you are concerned about your condition, please continue to use that number.
Feedback on our service will enable us to understand what we do well and how we can improve. Please click here to submit your feedback.
Keep up to date with the latest news
Find out what is happening in our services here.
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Click here to find out how you can feedback to us about your experiences, along with how to raise any concerns, complaints or questions.
