Seeking out-of-hours med care
- Where to go for out-of-hours medical care
- Alternatives to A&E, including pharmacists, walk-in centres and NHS Direct
- The differences between important out-of-hours services
- What to expect of the NHS Direct service
What's in this guide
Out-of-hours medical care
Our 24-hour guide to medical care explains where to get help if you or your family fall ill
Pharmacies
Pharmacies offer a convenient way to obtain advice on medicine without making appointments
NHS Direct / NHS 24
NHS 24 does in Scotland what NHS Direct does in England and Wales
Walk-in centres
Walk-in centres offer routine, primary healthcare services to those in need
A&E and 999 / 112
You can take yourself to A&E or dial either 999 or 112 for an ambulance
GP out-of-hours services
When you need advice quickly, but your condition isn't life threatening, call a GP out-of-hours service
Minor injuries units
These units offer diagnosis and treatment for people with minor illnesses and injuries
Action points
Points to consider before you seek medical attention
Contacts
Useful phone numbers and web addresses for advice and more information