The United Kingdom's National Health Service (NHS) has applied the new '111' phone number for access to non-emergency national healthcare services.
The number is not for life-threatening situations, but for quick help, or if someone does not know whom to call. Currently available in Durham and Darlington counties, 111 is a way for those in need to access local healthcare services at any time, while successfully putting patients in touch with the right NHS service.
The 24-hour service includes providing health advice, giving information about out-of-hours services or making an out-of-hours appointment with a GP. This is all specified with a supportive staff of registered nurses. For example, if your child has a fever during the night and you need a doctor, 111 will put you directly in touch with your local services.
In the case of an emergency, an ambulance will be sent immediately without the need for any further assessment. For minor illnesses and injuries, the nurse on duty will to be able to provide immediate medical advice.
According to Health Secretary Andrew Lansley, this new method is a step in the right direction. "NHS 111 will provide a single point of access for all non-emergency care services -- this has never been available before but makes real sense."
A pilot 111 proposal was launched in the English counties of Durham and Darlington in August 2010, with three more pilots -- in Nottingham, Lincolnshire, and Luton -- to follow. Subject to evaluation, it is expected the service will be available nationally in 2013.
"For the first time there will be one number to put patients in touch with the right NHS service" Lansley said. "It is about providing a better service to patients. We want to put an end to the confusion over what services are available when and where, and provide people with two simple numbers: 999 for emergencies, 111 for everything else."
