Emergency Department (A&E)

 

• Can I visit the emergency department if my condition is not life-threatening?
• Who can visit the emergency department?
• Emergency department contact details
• Advice for parents/carers
• Advice for young people
• Patient information
• Posters

 
Many people visit the emergency department when they could have received the advice and help they needed from their Pharmacist, GP or NHS 111 service.
 
The emergency department should only be used in emergency circumstances and anyone who is not in need of emergency treatment, may be turned away and directed to another NHS service.
 
Can I visit the emergency department if my condition is not life-threatening?
 
Anyone who thinks they need the emergency department due to an urgent but not life-threatening medical need, should make sure they contact NHS 111 first rather than going straight to the emergency department.
 
NHS 111 can now book people in to be seen quickly and safely in the emergency department.  As well as this, NHS 111 is also able to direct to, or book an appointment at Urgent Treatment Centres, GP practices, pharmacies, emergency dental services and other key services.
 
To contact NHS 111 visit their website 111.nhs.uk or call 111.  It is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  
 
If you attend the emergency department without an appointment when it is not a life-threatening emergency, you may be referred elsewhere for treatment or be assisted to use NHS 111.
 
Who can visit the emergency department?
 

 
The emergency department is for people with a life-threatening illness or injury. 
 
An emergency might include:
 

• Severe chest pain
• Suspected heart attack or stroke
• Suspected meningitis
• Suspected broken bones
• Breathing difficulties
• Sudden and severe headaches
• Severe burns
• Severe injuries requiring hospital treatment

 
The rule is simple.  Call 999 for an ambulance, or take someone straight to the emergency department if it is an emergency or life threatening situation.  Call 111 or your general practice for any other urgent need.
 
Ambulances are for life-threatening emergencies.  Calling 999 for an ambulance is not a fast route into the emergency department.
 

Emergency department contact details