PATIENT NOTICE
There are over 21 million attendances at accident and emergency (A&E) departments each year.
A&E departments assess and treat patients with serious injuries or illnesses. Generally, you should visit A&E or call 999 for life-threatening emergencies, such as:
- loss of consciousness
- acute confused state and fits that are not stopping
- persistent, severe chest pain
- breathing difficulties
- severe bleeding that cannot be stopped
A&E staff are trained to deal with serious illness and injury.
If it is not an immediate emergency call NHS 111. The service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and can provide medical advice and advise you on the best local service to offer the care you need.
Less severe injuries and illnesses can be treated at the practice or (when we are closed) at The Walk In Centre (Katie Road, Selly Oak, Birmingham) open 8am – 8pm 7 days a week no appointment necessary. Local Pharmacies can also provide advice and over the counter medications.
You should contact the Practice for illnesses and injuries that are not life threatening, such as:
- Headaches
- Leg, Knee, Neck or Back pain
- Diarrhoea and/or Vomiting
- Coughs and Colds
- Nosebleeds
- Minor Cuts and Grazes
- Generally Unwell
- Constipation
These would be classed as inappropriate use of A&E and the first point of contact should be the practice.
Outside of normal surgery hours you can still phone the practice, but you will be directed to an Out of Hours Service. The Out-of-Hours period is from 6.30pm to 8am on weekdays, and all day at weekends and on bank holidays. During out-of-hours periods you can also call NHS 111.
During normal hours if you are not sure whether you need to attend the A&E department, please call the practice on 0121 415 5237.