NHS 24 is a neat thing!

Due to ongoing severe stomach pains that are getting worse and worse, I phoned NHS 24 last night for some advice.  The nurse was so friendly, asked very complete questions and at the end she decided to send me to A&E and put me on the registration list straight away.  I was in, seen, and out of A&E within an hour. The doctor didn't have much answers (need several tests and scans done) and I'm still in pain, but I've got lovely pain meds and I've got an appointment with my GP today. So I just thought the whole thing was handled pretty well.  I think that is a neat service, NHS 24. 

I'm sorry you are in such pain!

I agree!!!  When Josh had the Noro Virus in Jan Rich was on the phone with them several times. They were so kind and patient every time.   They had us in to see the Dr at A&E 20 minutes later. (At the Walk-in clinic there)

I've used NHS 24 when I had a severe toothache and same thing. The lady on the phone was very thorough with her questions and did her best to get me seen right away.

I actually went to the Doctor yesterday because ive been sick with the same cold/flu for 2 weeks and not feeling any better and was really happy with the service i got from the doctor. First, right when i called they said they had a cancellation and if i could get there in 20 mins that would be great.  Even though my symptoms were just cold/flu she was sooo thorough, asked me about 25 different questions about my symptoms, looked in my ears, eyes, mouth, nose, weighed me, did my blood pressure, checked my heart and lungs with a stethescope, felt my glands in my neck...she was really good. End diagnoses, Sinusitis and she gave me some Ammoxicilan. 

Sometimes in this country the healthcare professionals (NHS 24 workers, nurses, doctors) dont get enough credit and its nice to give props to the ones that really care and do their best to help you. 

also vote for NHS Direct.  i've called them twice- both for UTI.  they assessed the situation, and offered me the option of a dr coming out to visit or me going to the walk-in-clinic.  efficient, helpful, sympathetic.  great service!

I also love NHS Direct, a few years ago I did the same, they registered me for an emergency room and I was in a hospital bed on morphine within about an hour. I had to call the other night when my son hit his head. Its a great service! I hope you are feeling better!

Thanks everyone for the well wishes!

Question, why does it take so long to get ultrasounds scheduled and how come they couldn't do it in A&E and had to be done through my GP, but I won't get an appointment for like 3 weeks? 

I'm in a ton of pain, so pain meds it is right now, until we get more answers. I'm still feeling worried even after seeing the GP, but if it gets worse, I'm calling NHS 24 again!

NHS24 is a great service, I have called them a few times and their nurses are brilliant. Sorry to hear you're not feeling so hot Laura, hope you can get that ultrasound brought forward. Unfortunately there is a waiting list for pretty much everything in the NHS unless you are at death's door. 

Are there several hospitals in the area?  If so, maybe they can find the one which has the earliest ultrasound possible...I'd definitely ask (cause I did that and got an appointment in 9 days).

I know at my hospital they have emergency appts. for pregnant woman in the mornings.  I almost had to use a slot when I was pregnant with Josh, of course my scheduled scan was that afternoon, so I told them to use it for someone else.

I hope you can get it brought forward, you should not have to wait that long when you are in pain!

Thanks... I'm going to try and move my appointment up or do something...this is getting insane...

I'm so sorry you're in pain - that sucks!  Hugs!  Hope they get you sorted out & that you feel better soon.

Thanks

is this the 0845 46 47 thingie?

Yes.
Its a different number in Scotland though, but the same difference.
Its called NHS 24 in Scotland, NHS Direct in England. 

I had called them again on Saturday due to being in great pain again and being very dizzy and weak and fatigued.  The nurses are very friendly, calm, and patient with you! 

phatbeetle, I know you've been signed off sick for awhile.  Did they ever find out what was wrong?  Are you getting sorted out?  Update please!