TICKBOXES THAT DECIDE YOUR FATE

The 111 number is intended for those who urgently need medical advice.

In clearly life threatening situations, patients should always call 999.

But the 111 number is meant to be used when someone has concerns about their health or another person’s, but is unsure whether it is serious or what they should do.

The number was rolled out nationwide in 2013, and is run by different bodies in each of the different regions of england. It replaced NHS direct, which was a nurse-led advice line for patients.

Unlike NHS direct, which was staffed mainly by clinically trained staff such as nurses and paramedics, 111 relies on advisers who have no clinical training.

As a result it has been highly controversial, and some doctors claim it is unsafe for patients. The call advisers use a computer to input the symptoms described by the patient. They are then guided through a flow-chart of tick boxes which asks a series of questions.

Based on the answers given, the computer system will – in theory – provide the best course of action of the patient. On some occasions, for example, it might state that the patient requires an ambulance immediately.

At other times it will recommend the patient attends a walk-in centre within four hours, or that the patient should simply try to see their GP within seven days. The Government claims that those answering the phones at 111 are ‘highly trained advisers’. Crucially, they are supposed to be constantly ‘supported by healthcare professionals’, such as ‘experienced nurses and paramedics’. evidence seen by the Mail shows that this is often not the case.