FAQ 487
What should I do if I become unwell out of hours, on Bank Holidays or during the holidays?

Getting ill out of hours and/or Bank Holidays

The Common Ailment Service is a free NHS service that patients can access for advice and treatment of 26 conditions. Search for a pharmacy near you and find out whether they take part in the scheme.

NHS Direct Wales website provides an encyclopaedia of ailments and a symptom checker.

NHS Direct Wales can be contacted on 111 twenty-four hours a day for telephone advice.

If you are registered with a doctor, you can telephone your surgery who will provide contact information for your local GP Out of Hours Service (OOHS). This service is available for urgent medical situations but not emergencies.

Getting ill during the holidays

If you become unwell or need medical treatment when you’re at home or not staying near your university GP, you can contact your nearest practice to ask for treatment.

Emergencies

Visit the A&E department only if your problem is an emergency. More guidance on when you should go to A&E can be found on the NHS website.