Parents urged to choose the right NHS service when their child gets ill

It can be difficult to know what to do for the best when a child comes down with an illness or suffers an injury, but there are a number of different options available from the NHS to suit different circumstances.

By being fully aware of their choices and when to use them, parents can ensure their children will receive the best advice or treatment for a variety of symptoms and conditions.

Dr Alvin Low at Bedfordshire CCG, said: “Every parent wants to know that their child will receive the very best care that’s available when they become ill or hurt themselves – but they may not be aware of the variety of NHS services that are available to help them in times of need.

“Your local pharmacist, for example, can offer advice for a range of minor illnesses which are best taken care of at home – including the coughs, colds and sore throats which are particularly common at this time of year.

“Alternatively, if you have a problem while your GP or pharmacist is closed you can call 111, the NHS’s non-emergency number which is available 24 hours a day and free to call from mobiles and landlines.

“Here you can talk to a highly trained adviser who will ask you a series of questions to assess your symptoms and immediately direct you to the best medical care for your needs.

“For other minor injuries or illnesses that won’t wait until your GP surgery is open, visit your local walk-in centre, minor injuries unit or urgent care centre and for general health care advice, you can access a wealth of information and resources online at www.nhs.uk.”

To make sure they can choose wisely when they need help for their child, parents are encouraged to familiarise themselves with these NHS services.