Quick answer
Where should I get medical help?
Use a pharmacist for many minor illnesses and medicine questions, a GP for non-emergency problems needing diagnosis or ongoing care, NHS 111 when you need urgent advice and are unsure where to go, A&E for serious emergencies, and 999 for life-threatening symptoms.
Use a pharmacist
Choose a pharmacist for medicine side effects, minor infections, coughs, colds, hay fever, uncomplicated skin problems and advice on whether another service is needed.
Use a GP
Use your GP for persistent or recurring symptoms, diagnosis, long-term conditions, mental health, referrals and medicine review. Ask for urgent same-day assessment when the problem cannot safely wait.
Use 111, A&E or 999
NHS 111 triages urgent uncertainty. A&E manages serious illness and injury. Call 999 when life, limb or consciousness is at immediate risk; do not drive yourself during a life-threatening emergency.
Common questions
- What can a pharmacist treat?
- Pharmacists can advise on minor illness and medicines, and in England Pharmacy First can assess selected conditions such as uncomplicated UTI in eligible women, sore throat and infected insect bites.
- When should I use NHS 111?
- Use 111 when you need urgent help but it is not clearly a 999 emergency, or when you are unsure which service is appropriate.
- Do I need an appointment for an urgent treatment centre?
- Arrangements vary. NHS 111 can direct or book you where available, while some centres accept walk-ins.