You should always call 999 if someone is seriously ill or injured and their life is at risk.
In order for us to provide GP appointments to those who need them most we ask you to please consider the options below which may be appropriate in some cases.
Self-care
Many minor ailments such as coughs or colds can often improve with simple self-care. Self-care for common conditions can make it easier for you to access your GP when you have a more serious complaint.
Your Local Pharmacy
Pharmacists can give expert advice on medicines and many common conditions, without an appointment. Pharmacists are qualified to give advice about different health matters, including minor ailments. They are trained to advise you whether your symptoms can be treated without the need to see a doctor , or whether you should seek further advice from your GP.
The Minor Ailments Service is available from community pharmacies and offers advice and treatment for a wide range of common ailments. Treatments provided as part of the Minor Ailments Service are free of charge.
Pharmacists can also advise you about over the counter medications available to purchase and can check for you that they will not interact with your prescribed medications. Please hit on the link below for more information.
Your Local Optician
If you have a sudden onset eye problem you can now access care from a local accredited optometrist. If you develop a red, painful or sticky eye or a sudden change in vision you can contact your optician for advice and ask if you are eligible to be seen. You will be offered an appointment to be seen and assessed within 48hrs and where appropriate treated at no cost. For more information about this service please click the link below.
Northern Ireland Primary Eyecare Assessment and Referral Scheme
Phone First
If you have an urgent problem (excluding serious illness or injury) and are considering travelling to the Emergency Department or Minor Injuries Unit please ‘Phone First’ between 9am and 6pm Monday to Friday on:
0300 123 3 111.
Access and Information
This service is available to anyone over 65years of age and living in the Southern Trust Area who is struggling to complete daily living tasks independently and/or feels isolated or lonely and would like connected to local support services.
A relative and/or carer can contact on the patients behalf. Through this patients can access various services including social work input, occupational therapy and incontinence services.
Telephone numbers:
02837564300 (Mon – Fri 9am – 5pm)
02895049999 (Out of Hours)
