Look after yourself

Whilst the NHS is always there to help, inform and advise, sometimes it’s safe to manage heath problems yourself.  You can prevent many illnesses by making healthy choices and improving your lifestyle.  

There are simple steps, for example you can prevent the spread of germs by always washing your hands after using the toilet or eating food and by using a tissue when you sneeze – catch it –bin it – kill it.

The most important aspect in looking after yourself is to make the right choice at the right time.

NHS Choices is the most comprehensive health and well being resource on the Internet and includes NHS LifeCheck - an online health service that will keep you well informed and help you assess and manage your own health.

www.nhs.uk

Self-care

A well-stocked medicine cabinet will help you deal with many common complaints such as coughs, colds and aches.  Remember antibiotics have no effect on viral infections such as colds or the flu.

You can take advice from your pharmacist without an appointment.  Your pharmacist can tell you which medicines are best suited to your symptoms and can give you advice on prescribed medicines.

All Liverpool residents can register with a doctor (often called a GP) and you can contact them for most non-urgent needs.

NHS Direct

NHS Direct is more than just a telephone helpline and is available 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year. 

You can contact NHS Direct about any health worries as they have the knowledge and experience to give real help and re-assurance.

Contact NHS Direct online, on the telephone and on digital TV.

0845 46 47  www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk

Freeview channel 100 and press the blue button on your remote control.  On SKY Digital select Sky Interactive on your remote control and select NHS Direct from the menu.

NHS Walk-in

If you have an urgent but less serious injury or illness call into your local NHS Walk-in centre which provides nurse-led healthcare advice, information and treatment.

Emergency call 999

If you have a serious medical emergency call 999 and ask for the ambulance service or attend your local emergency department.  This service is only for the most serious injuries and illnesses only.

If you are in need of advice about health care in Liverpool for example finding what community health services are available or how to register for a doctor or how to find a dentist as well as information on local health campaigns then contact the Liverpool Patient Advice Liaison Service (PALS).

0800 073 1106 (24 hour voicemail)

E-Mail:  PALS@liverpoolpct.nhs.uk

Become an expert patient

If you are experiencing a condition that you are likely to have to live with over a long period then it is important that you receive help and support to ensure you are able to improve the quality of your life. The local NHS can help you manage your pain and condition, give general health advice relating to eating, relaxation and fitness and help you communicate with health professionals.

To become an expert patient  contact Debbie Jenkins on:  0151 296 7442

Local Involvement Networks – Liverpool LINk

Liverpool Local Involvement Network (LINk) is an independent network made up of local people and groups to give a stronger voice in how health and social care services are delivered.
There are many ways that you can get involved through participation in surveys, working groups or by becoming a neighbourhood champion or attending a community event.

0151 227 5177  www.liverpoollink.org.uk