What to do when the GP Practice is closed

• If you need medical help fast but it’s not an emergency call 111
• If it’s a life-threatening emergency call 999

NHS 111 is the number to call when you need medical help fast but it’s not a life-threatening emergency.

• Calls to 111 are FREE from landlines and mobiles
• NHS 111 is available 24/7, every day of the year

When to call 111

You should call 111 when:

• you think you need to go to A&E or to another NHS urgent care service
• your GP surgery is closed and you need healthcare advice
• you don’t know who to call for medical help.

When to call 999

Call 999 for life threatening emergencies such as:

• Major accident or trauma
• Severe breathlessness
• Severe bleeding
• Loss of consciousness
• Severe chest pain

Out-of-hours services are provided during the following periods when the surgery is closed: 18:00 08:00 weekdays and all weekend.  During normal practice opening hours, the practice remains your first point of contact for all routine requests.

111 online is a fast and convenient alternative to the 111 phone service and provides an option for people who want to access 111 digitally. 

Your needs will be assessed and you will be given advice about whether you need:

• Treat yourself at home
• Go to a Primary Care Centre

If you need face to face medical attention you may be asked to attend a Primary Care Centre.

Click here to access NHS 111 online or call 111 to speak to a staff member.

The Gateshead Walk-in Centre is based at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital for minor injuries and illness.

Open 07:00 – 22:00, 7 days a week

You can use the walk in centre if your problem isn’t life threatening, so don’t need A+E but it needs more urgent attention than a GP appointment may provide.

Reasons why you might need to attend the walk in centre would include:

• infections and rashes
• blood pressure checks
• fractures and lacerations
• emergency contraception and advice
• stomachaches
• vomitting and diarrhoea
• hay fever
• insect and animal bites
• stitches (sutures)
• dressing care
• minor cuts and bruises
• minor burns and strains
• Stop smoking support

Gateshead’s walk in centre is based at the QE Hospital opposite Outpatients and Accident and Emergency.

Alternatively, if you are not sure if you should go to the walk in centre and require advice when the surgery is closed ring NHS 111.