What to do if you can't get a GP appointment

If you have a question about your medication or you would like advice about over- the-counter medications, a pharmacist is qualified to give advice and assess if you should seek medical help. Some pharmacists can prescribe medications for minor illnesses. Your GP practice may also have a GP pharmacist who you can ask to speak to about medications. 

How pharmacies can help:

NHS

If you can’t get an appointment with your GP, some GP surgeries have the facility for online queries to request an appointment, ask a question or request repeat medication. 

Find out more information about online services here:
Online services

If you are unsure about a condition or injury, you can visit the NHS website for medical advice

Find out more here:
Conditions A-Z

Walk-in centres are for minor illnesses and injuries, for example, sprains, strains, and insect bites. most are open 7 days a week. 

Find your nearest walk-in centre:

Walk in centers

Practice nurses can help advise you about long-term conditions such as diabetes, and they can advise on things like quitting smoking and weight management. Some GP surgeries have nurse practitioners who can see people for minor illnesses, and some can prescribe medications such as antibiotics.

If you have an urgent medical issue and are unsure what to do, call 111, or Get help for your symptoms - NHS 111 

NHS 111 is available 24 hours 7 days a week. A trained advisor will direct you to the most appropriate healthcare advisor, this might be a GP, dentist, nurse or pharmacist.

In an emergency call 999, our nurse team would advise you to ring 999 instead of taking yourself to the hospital unless you are advised differently by the call handler.