THE ACCESS NUMBER TO NHS DIRECT - 0845 4647.
Calls are charged at local rates, but the information and advice given will, of course, be free.

Of course, not everything can be done on the phone, but there is good evidence from this country and elsewhere in the world that much valuable advice can be provided this way. Such services have already saved lives. The nurses are all highly trained clinicians, many of whom already have expertise in this rapidly developing area of care.

Where an ambulance is needed, NHS Direct staff immediately pass the call to the ambulance control room. The helpline uses tested guidelines with supporting computer software and will have constant access to medical advice and the ambulance service.

There is strong evidence that helplines can provide a real service for people and it is clear from early reactions to the pilots that the public want this service. NHS Direct will help people care better for themselves and their families, give reassurance when they need it, round the clock. Any relief it offers to pressures on other parts of the NHS will be an additional benefit.

Healthpoint
This is a FREE health information service for the public in Dorset, Poole and Bournemouth. Healthpoint is situated in Poole Central Library on the top floor of the Dolphin Centre. You can contact Healthpoint by telephoning 01202 675377.