When to use NHS 111 online or call 111
NHS 111 can help if you think you need medical help right now.
You can get help from NHS 111:
- by using 111 online
- in the NHS App
- by calling 111
We can direct you to the best place to get help if you cannot contact your GP during the day, or when your GP is closed (out-of-hours).
Depending on what you need, you might be advised to:
- call 999 or go to A&E in an emergency
- go to an urgent treatment centre
- see an evening and weekend GP (out-of-hours GP)
- book a callback from a nurse
- get urgent specialist support, for dental or mental health problems
- contact your own GP surgery
- see a pharmacist for help with a minor illness
- look after yourself safely at home
111 online is for people aged 5 and over. Call 111 if you need help for a child under 5.
Answer questions about your symptoms on the website or in the NHS App and we will tell you what to do next.
Emergency prescriptions
Dental problems
111 online can help with dental problems. This might mean finding a dentist, or an emergency dentist if there is availability in your area.
What 111 online cannot do
111 online cannot:
- issue fit notes – you need to contact your GP
- make or cancel appointments for you in other parts of the NHS
111 online asks for feedback, but this is only used to help improve our service.
We are unable to respond to requests for medical help left as feedback.
Get help on the phone
- need help for a child under 5
- have complex problems caused by an existing medical condition
- have a care plan from your doctor for your current health problem
- need to get end-of-life care
Other ways to contact 111
Text relay
Call 18001 111 using text relay, 24 hours a day.
British sign language (BSL)
Help in other languages
Call 111 and ask for an interpreter.
How to get urgent medical help elsewhere in the UK
- Scotland – NHS 24 111
- Wales – NHS 111 Wales
- Northern Ireland – nidirect: advice about illnesses and conditions
How to make a complaint
More in Urgent and emergency care services
Page last reviewed: 14 November 2022
Next review due: 14 November 2025
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