Need urgent help?
We’re here if you need us - but we know sometimes, you’ll need care that can’t wait for our next available appointment.
Here in Worcestershire, our local NHS providers have worked together to develop a range of options for patients requiring urgent care - helping you to get the help you need, when you need it, while allowing our local emergency services to focus on delivering life-saving care.
If your symptom is listed below, there’s an alternative NHS provider available who may be able to help you get treatment quickly and easily.
Should I go to A&E?
An A&E department (also known as emergency department or casualty) deals with genuine life-threatening emergencies, such as:
loss of consciousness
acute confused state and fits that are not stopping
breathing difficulties
severe bleeding that cannot be stopped
severe allergic reactions
severe burns or scalds
major trauma such as a road traffic accident
feelings of self-harm or suicide
If you or someone around you is experiencing any of these symptoms, you should call 999.
Less severe injuries can be treated in Minor Injuries Units.
Not sure where to go?
If you are feeling ill or have sustained a minor injury, but aren’t sure which service is best suited to help you, you can contact 111 to be directed to the appropriate service for your particular needs.
You can contact 111 in non-life-threatening situations. You will be asked questions about your symptoms in order to work out exactly what help you need, and then pointed in the right direction.
If you need to go to A&E, NHS 111 will book an arrival time for you. This may mean you spend less time in A&E, and can also help to ensure social distancing for vulnerable patients.
They may be able to arrange for you to speak to an out-of-hours GP if you need one, and can book an appointment for this, too.
You can get help from NHS 111 online or by calling 111. It's available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week – so there is always advice there if you need it.