NHS Inform is a useful online site for information and advice about health issues. As we enter the Easter holiday period NHS 24 has launched its spring public health campaign which promotes NHS inform – a clinically approved online resource for health and care information to relieve pressure on GP Surgeries, Pharmacies and NHS Orkney’s Balfour Hospital.

Dr Siama Latif, NHS 24’s associate medical director, explained the role of digital resources: 

“NHS inform is an online health resource offering a wealth of information specific to patients in Scotland. The great thing about NHS inform is it is easy and convenient to use. Instead of having to call the NHS 24’s 111 service for minor health issues, you can quickly find the information you need online, anytime, and anywhere. This not only saves you time but also helps free up the phone lines for those who need urgent care.

“Our advice these Easter holidays is to be aware and be prepared.  

“Be aware that many GPs and pharmacies are likely to have amended opening hours over the Easter weekend. If you rely on prescription medicine, review how much you have now. If you are likely to need more over the holiday weekend – order it now and remember to pick it up well in advance of any GP or pharmacy closures.  

“You should also be prepared to deal with common illnesses. Viruses such as colds, flu, and sickness bugs still circulate in spring, so make sure you have remedies and painkillers available at home to help with symptoms.

“Remember, NHS inform should be your number one source for reliable, NHS-approved advice. Support our NHS services and access the right care in the right place this spring by choosing NHS inform.” 

• 111 – providing urgent care triage for anyone who thinks they need A&E, but it is not life or limb threatening, support for those in mental health distress and advice when their GP, pharmacy or dental practice is closed.
• NHSinform.scot – Scotland’s online health information service that offers quality assured health and care information including – Symptom checker, Scotland’s Service Directory and Mental health advice and resources.
• Breathing Space a free and confidential phone and web chat service for anyone in Scotland over the age of 16 experiencing low mood, depression, or anxiety.
• Care Information Scotland (CIS) a phone, webchat and website service providing information about care services for people living in Scotland.
• Quit Your Way Scotland an advice and support service for anyone trying to stop smoking in Scotland.
• Living Life a phone service that offers support to people in Scotland who are experiencing low mood, mild to moderate depression or symptoms of anxiety through cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).