NHS Direct operates a 24-hour nurse advice and health information service, providing confidential information on:

• What to do if you or your family are feeling ill
• Particular health conditions
• Local health care services, such as doctors, dentists or late night opening pharmacies.
• Self help and support organisations

The telephone service is available in England and Wales and a similar service called NHS24 was introduced in Scotland in 2002. NHS Direct works hand-in-hand with other health care services provided by the NHS, helping you make the right choice to meet your needs. Calls to NHS Direct are charged at local rates and for patients’ safety, all calls are recorded.

If you need health information or advice at any time of the day or night,

call NHS Direct on 0845 4647

NHS Direct can provide confidential interpreters. All you need to do is state in English the language you would prefer to use.

1. Ring the NHS Direct telephone number – 0845 4647.

2. When your call is answered, say the English word for the language you wish to use.

3. Wait on the line until you are connected to an interpreter who will help NHS Direct give you the health information or advice you need.

Alternatively, you can ask a friend or relative to make the call on your behalf. Wait until an interpreter is on the line before you explain why you are calling.

NHS Direct has been extended to provide a comprehensive online health resource for internet users.

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Enter the above website address to access the online service, allowing you to make use of the following NHS Direct services:

• Health Encyclopaedia – covering a wide range of health topics.

• Best Treatments – links to help you choose the best treatment.

• Self-Help Guide – not feeling well? Try this for advice.

• NHS Information Database – A guide to services in your area.

A fully-featured search tool allows you to find what you are looking for quickly and easily.

Frequently Asked Questions will take you to a categorised listing of the most common searches.

Hot Topic links are also available, giving you the latest information on health issues, alerts and NHS health promotions.
 

Send mail to carl.starbuck@nhs.net with questions or comments about this web site.
Copyright © 2005 Lingwell Croft Surgery
Last modified: 06/07/05