Choose Well this winter
NHS Bedfordshire is encouraging people to choose the right place to be treated this winter. There's a range of NHS services on your doorstep so the next time you or a member of your family is feeling unwell, and you are not sure what to do, choose from the following options to help you decide:
Self-care Ask your pharmacist or chemist Contact NHS Direct Contact your GP surgery NHS Walk-in Centres Urgent care A&E or dialling 999 Emergency dental care
1. Self-care
A well-stocked medicine cabinet will help you with many common health problems, such as colds and flu, coughs, sore throats, indigestion, toothache, headaches and constipation. If you have children, don't forget to include medicines for them too. And always consult a doctor if the problem persists or worsens.
2. Ask your pharmacist
For free expert advice on everyday illnesses, cuts and bumps, medicines, healthy eating, obesity and giving up smoking. To find your three nearest pharmacies text 'pharmacy' to 64746 for free details, or for opening hours visit www.nhs.uk.
3. Contact NHS Direct
For confidential healthcare advice and information round the clock. Call 0845 46 47 to speak to an advisor or go online at www.nhs.uk.
4. Contact your GP surgery
For general medical advice and treatment, prescriptions, referral to a specialist or hospital, if needed, and jabs and tests. For urgent medical help when the surgery is closed, phone the surgery for the out of hours number.
5. NHS Walk-in Centres
There are two walk-in centres in Bedfordshire, where you can see an experienced nurse or doctor without an appointment for minor injuries and illnesses:
- Putnoe Walk-in Centre in Queens Drive, Bedford is open from 8am to 6.30pm seven days a week. Telephone: 01234 292969
- Luton Walk-in Centre in Chapel Street, Luton is open from 8.00am to 8.00pm seven days a week. Telephone: 01582 556400
6. Urgent care
When it’s not an emergency, but is too urgent to wait if your GP surgery is closed, phone the surgery for the out of hours number. You may be seen at home or offered an appointment at various centres in Bedfordshire during out of hours.
7. A&E or dialling 999
For severe breathing difficulties, chest pains, loss of blood, suspected broken bones or other medical emergencies, go to an A&E department or call 999 for an emergency ambulance. Remember, A&E and 999 are for emergencies only. Unsure if your condition needs A&E treatment? Call NHS Direct on 0845 4647.
8. Emergency dental care
Contact your dentist for emergency care arrangements. If you are not registered with a dentist contact NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 for information on out-of hours emergency dental treatment.
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