Choose Well

 If you are injured or become unwell, make sure you choose the right NHS service. 

Choosing well ensures that you receive the best possible treatment, leaving emergency services for those who need them most.

Self Care

Conditions such as a hangover, grazed knee, sore throat or cough can normally be treated at home.

Be prepared for most common ailments by keeping a few useful medicines at home, for example:

• paracetamol
• anti-diarrhoeal medicine
• rehydration mixture
• indigestion remedy
• plasters

Always follow the directions when using medicines and never exceed the stated dose.

If symptoms persist, talk to your pharmacist or GP.

Pharmacist

Your local pharmacist can provide help and advice on a range of conditions including:

Find a local pharmacist

Some local pharmacists provide a NHS Stop Smoking Service

Some local pharmacists offer a Free NHS Health Check

GP

Your local doctors' surgery or GP practice provides a wide range of family health services, including: 

• advice on health problems
• vaccinations
• examinations and treatment
• prescriptions for medicines

Find your local GP

GP services are also available without an appointment at:

Blaydon Primary Care Centre
Shibdon Road
Blaydon
NE21 5NW
Tel: 0191 443 6302

Washington Primary Care Centre
Park Way
Washington
NE38 7QZ
Tel: 0191 502 7569

These are both open 8am – 8pm, 7 Days a Week

Minor injury and illness units/walk-in centres

If your injury is not serious or life-threatening, you can get help from a minor injury and illness unit or walk-in centre. By choosing one of these services, you will allow A&E staff to concentrate on those who need them most, and save yourself a potentially long wait.

Minor injury and illness units/walk-in centres can treat a range of conditions including: 

• Sprains and strains
• Broken bones - arms and lower leg
• Wound infections
• Minor burns and scalds
• Minor head injuries
• Insect and animal bites
• Minor eye injuries
• Injuries to back, shoulder and chest

Find your local minor injury and illness unit/walk-in centre

A & E

Accident and emergency departments (A & E) assess and treat patients with serious injuries or illnesses. You should visit A & E or call 999 for emergencies, such as: 

• loss of consciousness
• pain that is not relieved by simple analgesia 
• acute confused state
• chest pain
• breathing difficulties
• blood loss
• choking

A & E departments offer access 365 days a year and 24 hours a day in South of Tyne and Wear.

Find your local A & E department

NHS Direct

If you’re unsure about where to turn or need help and advice about a specific condition, then call NHS Direct on 0845 4647 or visit www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk.  Phone lines are open 24 hours a day.