We try to keep our GP appointments for patients with more serious health problems.
Before you book an appointment to see a doctor please consider whether an appointment with a practice nurse might be appropriate. They can help you with a wide range of medical problems.
Our receptionists can help you decide which is the right person for you to see.
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Self care
If you have a cough, cold, headache or other minor ailment try treating yourself at home first. Find out more about treatments for common minor ailments.
Please remember that self-care for common conditions can help free up our GPs’ time, making it easier to get an appointment when you have a more serious condition.
Your pharmacist can help too
Pharmacists are highly trained health professionals and can give you confidential health advice for a range of common illnesses and complaints.
Don’t wait for a GP appointment for coughs, colds, aches and pains. Just give your local pharmacy a call or drop in – there’s no need to make an appointment.
Your pharmacists can also help you decide if you need to see a doctor or nurse.
Click here for more information about how pharmacies can help you.
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NHS 111
111 is the free NHS non-emergency number.
You should use the NHS 111 service if you urgently need medical help or advice but it’s not a life-threatening situation.
Call 111 if:
- you need medical help fast but it’s not a 999 emergency
- you think you need to go to A&E or need another NHS urgent care service
- you don’t know who to call or you don’t have a GP to call
- you need health information or reassurance about what to do next
Click here for more information about how NHS 111 can help you.
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Minor Injuries Unit
NHS Walk-in Centres offer fast and convenient access to health advice, information and first aid, and you can walk in, without an appointment, seven days a week.
Minor injuries units can be treated the following conditions:
- Wounds and grazes
- Cuts needing stitches
- Trips and falls
- Broken bones (there is an x-ray facility on site)
- Minor injuries resulting from minor road traffic accidents
- Minor injuries arising from domestic violence
- Minor injuries in children over three years of age
- Minor burns
- Sports injuries
- Sprains, bruises and abrasions
It is staffed by emergency nurse practitioners and most patients are treated within two hours of arrival.
Find your nearest Minor Injury Unit: Minor injuries unit services – NHS (www.nhs.uk)
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A&E
Your nearest A&E is located at Weston General Hospital (9am-5pm) or Southmead Hospital, Bristol (24/7).
A&E departments provide immediate emergency care for people who are seriously ill or are badly injured.
Unless you need emergency medical attention, it is best not to go to your local A&E department.
To find additional NHS services near you, click on the link Find NHS services near you – Mendip Vale Medical Group