Accessing NHS services: Who to contact and how

Which NHS service to contact?

Many GP practices in Scotland have made changes to their appointment booking systems. It is a good idea to make sure you know how to book an appointment at your GP practice. It is also worth knowing that visiting your GP may not always the quickest way to get the health advice you need.

Understanding which NHS service is the best one to contact for your health concern can help you get the right advice faster. This is called the Right Care Right Place approach. It can also help to keep NHS services free for when we really need them.

When to contact your GP

You should contact your GP if you have ongoing health concerns that do not go away with rest or simple treatment. Your GP can also help if you need same-day health advice during opening hours. If you cannot get a same-day appointment, you can call the NHS24 111 service.

What other services are available?

A pharmacist can help with minor health concerns, and community pharmacies can even provide appointments do discuss your health issue in private. Many pharmacists have additional qualifications allowing them to prescribe some medicines normally only available from a doctor.

For life or limb threatening injuries, you should call 999 or go straight to your nearest Accident and Emergency department if you are able. If you are not sure whether you need emergency help, you can call 111 for advice. Minor injury units can also help with broken bones and other injuries that need urgent but non-emergency treatment.

This guide provides more detail about which NHS service is best placed to help in different situations. It discusses health concerns that are common in older people and the type of help that is available. It also covers your rights and responsibilities as an NHS patient and how to make a complaint if you are unhappy with the treatment you receive.