How-To: What to do if you have a health problem in London

How-To: What to do if you have a health problem in London

1. Assess how serious your condition is. If you have fever, acute pain or don’t feel well enough to get out, call 111 for further assistance. You will either be booked in for a call from a doctor within the next 1-2 hours, or, in rare (and very serious) occasions, have an ambulance sent to you. If you or someone you’re with is experiencing a life-threatening emergency, call 999. 

2. If you’re well enough to get out, consider walking to the nearest pharmacy for a consultation. Some pharmacies even have a separate room for a confidential medical consultation: check this website to find the one closest to you. Some pharmacies can even provide you with prescription medicine for specific common conditions without visiting your GP. As of spring 2024, these conditions include:

  • Sore throat
  • Sinusitis
  • Earache
  • Infected insect bite
  • Impetigo (a bacterial skin infection)
  • Shingles
  • Uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women.

3. If you haven’t received sufficient help at the pharmacy, or you have been advised to consult your GP, book a GP appointment.

4. Your GP will advise you on the next steps. If necessary, they will refer you to any lab tests or scans as well as specialised centres for further examination and treatment. 

5. If your health condition is related to sexual health, you don’t need to contact your GP. Find a sexual health clinic in your nearest area and book an appointment with them – either online or on the phone.