We can all do our bit to reduce the pressure on our NHS by seeking the right care in the right place for our health needs.  Here’s a guide to some of the services offered by the NHS, to help you determine the best one(s) for your healthcare needs: 

NHSinform.scot

This website provides accurate and reliable information to help you make informed decisions about your health needs. It includes advice and information on:  

• How to help yourself manage common symptoms such as fever, earache and vomiting. 
• Home treatments and over-the counter remedies. 
• Symptom checkers to let you know where to go if you need further medical care.

Community Pharmacy

If you have a minor illness, a local pharmacy should be your first stop.  Your local pharmacy can help with: 

• Managing your repeat prescriptions.
• Accessing free emergency contraception. 
• Advice and treatment for minor illnesses and common conditions.

General Practice

General Practices are open and available for your health and well being needs, but they are continuing to work differently as a result of COVID-19. Think about whether you can manage your illness yourself, or visit your local pharmacy before calling your General Practice. 

NHS 24 on 111

NHS 24 on 111 can help you get the right care if:  

• You think you need A&E, but it’s not life threatening. 
• Your GP or dental practice is closed, and you cannot wait until they reopen.

A&E/999

Your local A&E is for emergencies, such as: 

• severe injury
• a suspected heart attack or stroke 
• severe breathing difficulties
• severe bleeding

Mental health support

Mental health and well being services are available to provide free support for a range of conditions such as stress, anxiety, depression, and feelings of panic.  There is a range of support available via telephone and online services.  

You can call Breathing Space on 0800 83 85 87. They are available Monday – Thursday 6pm to 2am and weekends Friday 6pm to Monday 6am.  You can also visit breathingspace.scot or clearyourhead.scot for practical advice and ideas on how to look after your mental well being. 

For urgent support please call NHS 24 on 111, 24 hours a day. 

Dentist 

You should contact your dentist if you have any pain or problem in your mouth. This includes mouth injuries and ulcers that won’t heal. If you’re not registered with a dentist, phone your regional dentist helpline. You can find the number at https://www.nhsinform.scot/. 

Optometrist 

If you have an eye problem, you should always contact an optometrist first. The majority of eye conditions can be managed by these highly skilled and specialised clinicians. 

Maternity care

Maternity services have continued to provide high quality care and support throughout the pandemic. However, the way in which these services are accessed may be different.

For example, your midwife or GP may carry out appointments and consultations via video call when appropriate. 

Planned hospital care

NHS Scotland is continuing to treat patients based on their clinical urgency. If you are currently waiting for an appointment or procedure and your symptoms worsen, please contact your  hospital clinical team or your General Practice.

COVID-19 guidance

When making an appointment with any NHS service you must tell the health team if you, or anyone you live with, have any respiratory or other COVID-19 symptoms. Some other things to remember:

• You should also wear a face covering unless you are exempt. 
• Please keep a safe distance from others. 
• Staff will be wearing appropriate PPE.
• Follow any COVID-19 safety instructions you are given by staff.

For further information on where to access the right medical care, visit NHSinform.scot/right-care.