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Useful Alternatives for a GP
Who Is the Right Person for Your Care?
Not every health problem needs a GP appointment. Depending on your symptoms and how urgent they are, there may be quicker and more convenient ways to get the care you need.
General Practice works closely with other Primary Care professionals such as Pharmacists, Opticians, and Urgent Care teams. Choosing the right service will save you time and help you get the best support faster.
Self-Care at Home
Many common illnesses and minor injuries get better on their own with rest and basic medicines. Studies show that up to 40% of GP appointments are unnecessary.
Conditions you can often manage at home:
- Upset stomach
- Common cold or flu
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Minor cuts, grazes, or sprains
A well-stocked medicine cabinet with pain relief, rehydration sachets, plasters, antiseptic, and cold remedies is useful.
Useful resources:
Pharmacy – Expert Advice Without an Appointment
Your local Pharmacist can give fast, expert advice for minor conditions without the need for a GP appointment.
Pharmacists can help with:
- Coughs, colds, and flu
- Minor aches, sprains, and rashes
- Cystitis
- Mild eczema and skin infections
- Emergency contraception
- New medicines support (NHS New Medicine Service)
Pharmacies are usually open late, at weekends, and on bank holidays.
Self-Referral Services
Some services allow you to refer yourself directly, without needing to see a GP first. This may be by phone, online form, or at a drop-in clinic.
See the self-referral services available.
NHS 111 – Urgent Advice When We’re Closed
Call 111 if you need urgent medical advice but it’s not a 999 emergency.
- Open 24/7
- Free to call from landlines and mobiles
Urgent Treatment Centres & Minor Injuries Units
Go to an Urgent Treatment Centre or Minor Injuries Unit if you need urgent care but it’s not life-threatening.
They can help with:
- Sprains and suspected broken bones
- Minor head injuries
- Cuts, bites, and stings
- Burns and scalds
- Ear, throat, and eye problems
- Rashes, coughs, colds, and fevers
- Stomach pain, sickness, or diarrhoea