Forum topic: 111 First: Accessing urgent and emergency care in London

As of 30 September 2020, the NHS has been asking patients with an urgent, but not life-threatening, health problem to contact NHS 111 first if they think they need to attend A&E. This can be done either online or by phone 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and the service is free to use (including from all mobiles).

NHS 111 is already able to book same-day appointments at most pharmacies, GP practices and Urgent Treatment Centres so patients receive the right type of care for them. NHS 111 will assist if emergency care is needed, such as sending an ambulance.

The booking service is also being extended to Accident & Emergency Departments. The North Middlesex is one of five hospitals where this is already being done, and from 1st December A&E Departments at all London hospitals will be included.

The primary reason for the changes is to reduce the risk of Covid-19 transmission in Accident & Emergency waiting areas, but they should also make obtaining the required care a more efficient process, requiring less time away from home waiting.

It will still be possible to walk in to an A&E, but if your condition is assessed as not as urgent as other patients you may be asked to return at a later time.

Patients with life-threatening emergencies should continue to call 999.

For more details about the changes and all the services available via NHS 111 use the link to Healthwatch Enfield website below.