NHS shares tips and tricks to get help quickly this winter

The NHS is helping people to take control of their health this winter:

• The NHS App puts essential services at your fingertips. You can order repeat prescriptions, manage appointments, receive reminders, and even check your health records, all from your phone.

• Online GP contact forms mean you can skip the 8am phone queue. Submit your request through your practice’s website and your local surgery team will get back to you, without needing to call.

• Your local pharmacist can help with a wide range of minor health issues. They are trained to offer oral contraceptives, the emergency contraceptive pill, and prescription medicines, if needed, for seven common conditions the same day.

• NHS 111 is available 24/7 by phone, online, or via the NHS App. It offers trusted medical advice for urgent health needs and can direct you to the most appropriate local service when your GP is unavailable.

Dr Ellie Cannon, NHS GP said: “Every winter, NHS services face a surge in demand, and this year is no different. Knowing where to get the care you need can make all the difference. For example, it’s common for people to default to the 8am scramble for a GP appointment, or go to A&E, as it’s what feels most familiar – but there are many far more convenient and quicker ways to handle your health concern while you get on with your day. By using community pharmacies for minor illnesses, NHS 111 for urgent health needs or accessing online services like the NHS App or contacting your GP surgery through their website, it’s quicker and easier than ever to get the care you need this winter.”

Abimbola Alaba, community pharmacist said: “We’re well into the winter bug season now and during this busy time for the NHS, it’s important people know that pharmacies aren’t just for collecting prescriptions. We are trained to help manage minor illnesses and can even offer some prescription medicine for seven common conditions – from sore throats and ear infections to sinusitis and UTIs. Patients who may otherwise think they need to see a GP can in fact walk in without an appointment and, if needed, get the right treatment directly from the pharmacist. It’s a real game changer for convenience and peace of mind.”

Natalie Randall, an NHS 111 Clinical Advisor said: “Christmas is such a busy time, and the last thing anyone wants is to second-guess where to go for support if they feel unwell or have an urgent health issue over this time, especially at a time when their GP surgery may be closed. I always remind people that NHS 111 is there 24/7. You can call or go online, and they’ll guide you to the right care, whether that’s self-care at home, a pharmacy, or seeing a GP. It’s reassuring to know you don’t have to guess or rush straight to A&E – you can get expert advice quickly and enjoy the holidays with peace of mind.”