Self-care
A lot of illnesses or symptoms can be treated in your home by using a well stocked medicine cabinet and by getting plenty of rest.

When and why?
Self-care is the best choice to treat very minor illnesses and injuries.

NHS Direct
NHS Direct offers confidential health advice and information by telephone and on the internet.
0845 4647* www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk

When and why?
Contact NHS Direct if you are ill and have any questions about health.
The service can also help you to find health services in your local area.

Pharmacist (Chemist)
Your local pharmacist is a highly trained healthcare professional, and can give you advice on common illnesses and the medicines you need to treat them. Most now have a quiet area away from other customers where you can speak to the pharmacist more privately.
NHS Direct: 0845 4647 www.nhs.uk/servicedirectories.

When and why?
Visit your local pharmacy when you are suffering from a common health problem which does not require being seen by a nurse or doctor.

GP (Doctor)
GPs surgeries can be found locally across Yorkshire and the Humber. You can make an appointment with your practice for medical advice, examinations and prescriptions.
GPs also provide an out-of-hours service - just ring your normal GP’s number.
NHS Direct: 0845 4647 www.nhs.uk/servicedirectories

When and why?
Make an appointment with your local GP when you have an illness or injury that will not go away.

NHS Walk-in Services
Walk-in services treat minor illnesses and injuries that do not need a visit to A&E.
Sheffield’s walk-in services are open 365 days a year. You do not need an appointment and will be seen by an experienced nurse or doctor.
For more information go to: www.sheffield.nhs.uk/walk-in

When and why?
Your local NHS walk-in services are:
NHS Walk in Centre/ Sheffield City GP Health Centre, Rockingham House, Broad Lane, Sheffield, S1 3PB (please use S1 4BT with your sat nav). Open 8am-10pm
Sheffield Minor Injuries Unit, Royal Hallamshire Hospital (Adults only). Open 8am - 8pm

A&E or 999
Accident and Emergency departments provide immediate emergency care for people who show the symptoms of serious illness or are badly injured.
If you telephone 999 and tell the operator that there is a medical emergency, a response vehicle may be sent to your location.

When and why?
Emergency services are very busy. They should only be used in very serious or life-threatening situations.
In Sheffield there is an A&E for adults at the Northern General and a separate A&E for children at Sheffield Children's Hospital
A&E departments in Sheffield