New NHS 111 to be launched soon

The launch of the pilot of the new NHS 111 service in Hammersmith and Fulham, Kensington and Chelsea, and Westminster is due to take place in May.

NHS 111 is a new telephone service to help people access local health services. If you live in one of the three boroughs you will be able to call 111 when you need medical help fast but it isn’t a 999 emergency.

For less urgent health needs, you should still contact your GP or local pharmacist in the normal way.

NHS 111 is free to call and is a fast and easy way to get the right medical help—whatever your need, wherever you are, and whatever the time.

The new service NHS 111 is staffed by a team of fully trained advisers, supported by experienced nurses, who ask callers questions to assess symptoms, give healthcare advice and direct them to the right local service as quickly as possible.

When someone calls 111, they are assessed straight away.  If it is an emergency, an ambulance will be despatched immediately without the need for any further assessment. For any other health problems, the NHS 111 call advisers will be able to direct callers to the service that is best able to meet their needs.

The line will be staffed 24/7, 365 days a year. Calls from landlines and mobile phones are free—just like 999.

So when should you call 111?

• It's 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

NHS 111 was launched in four pilot areas nationally in 2010, it recently launched in Hillingdon and Croydon, and the plan is roll out the new service across the whole of London by April 2013.

• See www.nhs.uk/111 for more information
• See local press, websites and other media for confirmation of the exact launch date of the pilot of NHS 111 in Hammersmith and Fulham, Kensington and Chelsea, and Westminster