Step by step
Life-threatening emergency: call 999
NHS guidance says 999 is for life-threatening emergencies such as a serious road traffic accident, stroke or heart attack. Give the exact location, what happened and a callback number.
Need medical help right now: use NHS 111
In England, use 111 online, the NHS App or call 111. NHS 111 can direct you to urgent treatment, an out-of-hours GP, a nurse callback, a pharmacist or safe self-care.
Routine or ongoing problem
Contact your GP practice or an appropriate pharmacy service. Use the service’s own instructions if symptoms change while you wait.
Elsewhere in the UK
Urgent-care routes vary across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Follow the official service for your nation.
Ready-to-use checklist
- Immediate danger considered first
- Official NHS route used
- Location and medicine list ready
- Changes or worsening reported
- Nation-specific route checked
Common problems
You are unsure whether it is an emergency
NHS advises getting help from 111 if you are unsure whether you need 999. If signs are life-threatening, call 999.
Symptoms worsen while waiting
Follow the callback instructions and contact 111 again if symptoms change; call 999 for signs of a life-threatening illness.
UK sources and scope
Checked 27 September 2026. Details may vary by nation, provider and circumstances; follow the linked official or specialist source for the current position.