NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde is reminding the public that a range of digital and virtual health services are available to help provide care without the need for a visit to the Emergency Department (ED).
Every week, thousands of people attend an Emergency Department with conditions that could be treated elsewhere. By choosing the right care, in the right place, patients can avoid long waits and help keep emergency care available for those who need it most.
Digital and virtual healthcare services are available, but many people are unaware of them. Being aware of these options this winter can save you time and help you get the care you need.
NHS inform website and NHS 24 Online App
If you’re feeling unwell, start by checking trusted NHS resources online. They can help you manage minor issues safely at home and know when to seek help. This can help prevent the spread of illnesses within your community.
By using the NHS inform website and/or the NHS 24 Online app, you can find information on keeping yourself well and treating minor illnesses and injuries from the comfort of home. These sources provide reliable health advice, symptom checkers, and self-care guidance.
It’s also recommended to have some over-the-counter remedies for common seasonal illnesses at home. This might include paracetamol and ibuprofen for pain relief, indigestion remedies such as an antacid, and a first aid kit.
Being prepared and using these tools can help you manage injuries and illnesses safely at home, avoid spreading illnesses within your community, and prevent unnecessary trips to A&E.
Flow Navigation Centre+ (FNC+), also known as Virtual A&E
FNC+, or Virtual A&E, is a service that helps you access the right care without leaving your home. If you call NHS 24 on 111 or are referred by a clinician, you may be directed to FNC+, where expert staff may arrange a virtual consultation for you.
Depending on the care you need, you might be treated from home, or medical professionals can book further appointments and guide you to the appropriate service.
If you think you need A&E but it is not life or limb threatening, support during mental health distress, or advice when your GP, dentist, or pharmacy are closed, your next step should be to call NHS 24 on 111.
Dr Claire Harrow, NHSGGC Deputy Medical Director for Acute Services, said: “Digital and virtual services are transforming how we deliver care. They give patients faster access to trustworthy advice and treatment without the need to travel, which is especially important during winter when pressures on A&E are highest.
“By using these services, from home, people can manage minor conditions safely, get expert medical support from FNC+, and help to keep emergency departments available for those who need them most at the same time.”
Dr Siama Latif, Associate Medical Director at NHS 24, said: “Digital health services like NHS inform and the NHS 24 Online app are a quick, simple way to get trusted health advice anytime, from the comfort of your own home. All info on NHS inform comes directly from NHS experts, so you can be confident it’s accurate and reliable. These tools can help you manage minor illnesses and injuries without leaving home, saving unnecessary trips to A&E.
“If it’s not life or limb threatening but you think you need A&E, or you need urgent mental health support, call 111. You can also call 111 if your own GP or dentist is closed and you cannot wait for it to reopen.”
