The way people access Emergency Departments (A&E) services has changed to keep patients and NHS Scotland safe – making sure everyone gets the right care in the right place.
Local Emergency Departments (A&E) are for those who have a life-threatening emergency such as:
- suspected heart attack or stroke
- severe breathing difficulties
- severe bleeding
- severe injury
To ensure patients have the fastest access to the treatment they need, anyone who does not have a critical emergency, who would usually go to A&E, should now call NHS 24 on 111 first, day or night, to be directed to the right NHS service.
If our Emergency Department (A&E) is the most appropriate place to provide the right care, patients will either be referred directly by NHS 24 or a telephone or video consultation with a senior clinical decision maker will be arranged.
For further information on where to access the right medical care, visit https://www.nhsinform.scot/right-care
When should you call 111?
If you think you need to attend the Emergency Departments but it’s not a critical emergency – phone 111. This service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
This service will provide you with urgent care – you’ll be assessed for a range of concerns including cuts, burns, suspected broken bones, sprains and other injuries or illnesses.
This may involve a telephone or video consultation with a clinician from your local health board or an appointment to attend A&E.