Primary Care
It is not only GPs who are qualified to see and treat you. Seeing a nurse, pharmacist or other expert at your GP practice reduces the number of appointments needed to get you the right care. Please take up an appointment with these professionals, if offered one by reception staff. They undertake training to signpost you to the right person to care for you.
If you no longer need your appointment at your GP practice you should always call to cancel as it can be used to treat another patient who is waiting. In January this year there were over 33,000 missed appointments in Lancashire and South Cumbria.
Visit www.healthierlsc.co.uk/NHShealthwise for more information.
Urgent Treatment Centres (UTCs)
Urgent Treatment Centres diagnose and deal with many of the most common illnesses that people mistakenly attend their local A&E for.
UTCs can treat many common ailments, such as sprains and strains, minor injuries, suspected broken bones and fractures, and scalds and burns.
X-rays are available at UTCs and, if you have a serious injury, your local UTC can refer you to an A&E or fracture clinic, if required.
You can access treatment from your local UTC by visiting 111.nhs.uk or by calling freephone 111.
Visit www.healthierlsc.co.uk/NHShealthwise for more information.
Mental Health
For mental health support get in touch with the wellbeing helpline on 0800 915 4640 or text ‘hello’ to 07860 022 846.
If your mental health is in crisis and you need support straight away, you can call the crisis line on 0800 953 0110.
Dial 999 straight away if you have harmed yourself.
Visit www.healthierlsc.co.uk/NHShealthwise for more information.
Self-care/pharmacy
Self-care is about keeping fit and healthy, understanding when you can look after yourself or when you might need help from a pharmacist or a GP.
If you have a long-term health condition, self-care is about understanding what you can do to manage your condition and how to live with it.
Some of the most common ailments and conditions can be treated simply and conveniently with over-the-counter medications and advice from your local pharmacy.
To find out more about self-care and when you should see your local pharmacy.
Visit www.healthierlsc.co.uk/NHShealthwise for more information.