When our services are very busy, this is how you can help us

In winter, our services do get extremely busy from time to time. You can help us by following the advice below. 

Which service should I access?

It is really important that patients who need urgent medical care continue to come forward as normal, especially in emergency and life-threatening cases - when someone is seriously ill or injured, or their life is at risk.

For non-urgent care needs, we would encourage you to seek help from NHS 111, before attending our hospital sites. For more information on when to call 999 and when to go to A&E, you can also visit the NHS UK website.

• If you have a life-threatening emergency, our ED is open 24 hours a day

• If you have an urgent medical problem that isn’t a serious or life-threatening emergency and aren’t sure what to do, contact 111 first by phone or online at 111.nhs.uk– they will provide immediate medical advice and direct you to the best care for your needs

• Urgent Treatment Centres (UTC) / Minor Injury Units: Attend your local UTC for urgent not life-threatening conditions and injuries such as sprains, fractures and burns. For the latest information on opening hours and services, visit the MIU pages

• Maternity Services: If you become unwell or have any concerns about your heath, including your baby’s movements, we advise you to call us as soon as possible for advice. Our maternity services are open 24/7.

• Pharmacy: Visit your local pharmacy for headaches, upset stomachs, aches and pains

• GP surgeries: please continue to contact your GP surgery as usual

• Mental health support: Somerset’s Open Mental Health Alliance offers support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week – and there really is no wrong door when it comes to accessing mental health support.

• Self-care: Visit NHS 111 online for self-care advice for things like grazed knees, coughs and colds

Further information on NHS services, opening hours and waiting times can also be found by downloading the NHS Quicker App. 

You can find more information about healthcare services across Somerset on the NHS Somerset website.