111 Non-Emergency

If it’s not a 999 Emergency but you need medical help fast then call 111.

What is 111?

111 is the new NHS Telephone Number being introduced to help make it easier to access local health services. Lincolnshire is in the pilot programme for the new number. Its the number to use if you need medical help fast, but it isn’t a 999 Emergency. If you live outside Lncolnshire then you should contact NHS Direct on 0845 4647.

On dialling 111 you will be assessed, given advice and directed straightaway to the local service that can help you best – that could be an out of hours doctor, a walk-in centre, community nurse, emergency dentist or late night chemist.

You can ring the 111 number 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days of the year. Calls from landlines and mobile numbers are free.

When do you use it?

You should use the NHS 111 Service if you need medical help or advice urgently but its not a life threatening situation.

You should call 111 if …

  • its not a 999 emergency
  • you think you need to go to A&E or another NHS urgent care service
  • you don’t think it can wait for an appointment with your GP
  • you don’t know who to call for medical help

For less urgent health needs, you should still contact your GP in the usual way

For immediate, life threatening emergencies continue to call 999.

How does it work?

111 will get you through to a team of highly trained advisers, who are supported by experienced nurses.  They will ask you questions to assess your symptoms, and give you the health care advice you need or direct you to the right local service.

The NHS 111 team will where possible book you an appointment or transfer you directly to the people you need to speak to.

If they think you need an ambulance, they will send one immediately – just as if you had originally dialled 999.

Why should you use it?

NHS 111 is a fast and easy way to et the right help – whatever your need, wherever you are, and whatever the time.

It can also help us to free up 999 and local A&E departments s that they can focus on emergency cases.

If a health profesional has given you a specific telephone number to call when you are concerned about your condition, please continue to use that number.

Added : 12/03/11 : MG