UNWELL but unsure where to go? Many visit the accident and emergency department at Hillingdon Hospital but with A&Es under pressure, NHS managers are working with the community to stop unnecessary visits and asking patients to consider the options available.

“This is about people getting the right treatment in the right place when they feel unwell, said Dr Ian Goodman, chairman of Hillingdon’s clinical commissioning group. “Calling NHS 111 and getting advice on local services, talking to a pharmacist or seeing a GP is often more appropriate than a visit to the A&E department.”

For more information on where to get treatment visit the NHS Direct website at www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk or call NHS 111.