New TV adverts from the NHS will be reminding people that they can get assessed and directed to the care they need without leaving home, by using NHS 111 online.
The adverts are part of the NHS 'Help Us, Help You' campaign.
A recent survey found that 39 per cent of people did not know NHS 111 online can direct you to the right care in as little as 90 seconds.
48 per cent of respondents had used the NHS 111 phone service, but only 9 per cent had used the online service. 31 per cent hadn’t used either.
Professor Sir Stephen Powis, NHS National Medical Director, said: “Last month our hard-working staff contended with another record month of A&E attendances and the most serious ambulance call-outs, alongside winter viruses that are seeing rapidly increasing numbers of patients in hospital with flu and Covid – new figures show a huge increase in calls to NHS 111, which is understandable with concerns about these winter viruses – including strep A.
“TV ads that are being launched this week will remind people how easy it is to get healthcare advice from the online service – it is available 24/7 and can provide the most appropriate local treatment option for non-emergency medical issues quickly, without needing to leave your home.
“It is vital that people continue to call 999 in an emergency so, as ever, please do come forward for the care you may need.
“Ahead of further industrial action this week, the NHS is encouraging people to continue to come forward for the care they need and if you haven’t been contacted about your appointment, please attend as you normally would.”
