NHS Urges 111 Service Use This Winter

The NHS is urging the public to utilize the 111 service this winter, as up to two-fifths of A&E visits could be managed more effectively elsewhere. Professor Julian Redhead, NHS national clinical director for urgent and emergency care, emphasized that 999 or A&E should be reserved for life-threatening emergencies, while the 111 service can provide assessment and direction to appropriate local care options. Notably, nearly one in six 999 calls last month were resolved with clinical advice over the phone, a significant increase attributed to the recruitment of more senior clinicians. The 111 service operates 24/7 and can arrange follow-up calls from healthcare professionals or offer self-treatment advice. The campaign is part of the NHS's strategy to alleviate pressure on emergency services during a particularly busy winter season. The health service is also promoting increased mental health support through the 111 service to enhance overall care access.