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"The purpose of 111"

About: Harmoni / NHS 111

(as the patient),

Called them with non urgent medical problem, answered a questionnaire and was told to call my GP and ask to be seen within 2 hours. I called my GP and received a callback and was advised that my problem didn't need treatment.

My concern is that if you answer a questionnaire to receive a diagnosis and then end up being told to contact your GP within 2 hours that you end up putting more pressure on the very service you were trying to prevent putting pressure on.

I knew my problem wasn't a medical emergency and just wanted some advice on how to treat it. With hindsight I probably should have gone to see a pharmacist, I certainly will if a similar situation ever arises.

The people at 111 need to be supported to direct people to self help and pharmacies so they don't end up putting unnecessary pressure on GP services. If they are always going to direct people to contact their GP, and within such a short timeframe, then what purpose do they serve?

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