Out Of Hours

What to do when the surgery is closed

If you feel the situation is an emergency, then you should consider dialling 999 to request an ambulance. If you need healthcare information or advice NHS 111 is a telephone service staffed by nurses giving confidential assistance 24 hours a day. Telephone 111. If you need a doctor urgently when the surgery is closed, please telephone NHS 111 by simply dialling 111 where your call will be answered by a trained receptionist who will assist you. They will then advise what action to take, it may well mean that you need to be seen by our “Out of Hours” doctor, NHS 111 will arrange this for you.

The service is intended for urgent but not emergency help.

The CCG is responsible for providing these out of hours services, not the practice. However, you may telephone the practice where there will be a recorded message giving the above telephone number to call.

NHS 111 Online

You can also use NHS 111 online (111.nhs.uk) or call 111.
111 online is for people aged 5 and over. Call 111 if you need help for a child under 5.

What is NHS 111?

• A simple, free to call, easy to remember three digit number that is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
• NHS 111 directs patients to the service that is best able to meet your needs taking into account your location, the time of day you are calling and the capacity of local services.

When should I use 111?

• When its not a life threatening situation and, therefore, is less urgent than a 999 call
• When you cannot see your own GP, for instance when it is closed or your are away from home
• When you feel you cannot wait or are simply unsure of which service you require
• When you require reassurance about what to do next

Accident & Emergency

The Accident and emergency units at Kent & Sussex Hospital, Tunbridge Wells and Princess Royal Hospital, Haywards Heath are open 24 hours a day.

Some minor accidents can be dealt with in the centre's treatment room. A practice nurse is present during normal hours but doctors are often out.

Don't just go to A&E

A&E is there when you need it, when the situation is urgent and it is not safe to wait. This covers the following situations:

• Choking
• Chest pain
• Heavy blood loss
• Serious injury/trauma
• Fits or unconsciousness
• Stroke
• Emergencies when any delay would cause further harm

We want to make sure the highly skilled teams at our A&E departments are available for those who need them. More than ever it is our responsibility to also help ensure NHS money is spent wisely and all patients get high quality care in the best place for them, whether that is at A&E, a minor injuries unit or your GP practice.