Health chief's plea to cut pressure on A&E

People are being urged to go online if they need medical care for something urgent but not life-threatening, instead of rushing to busy A&E departments.

England's national medical director, Professor Stephen Powis, said the NHS is facingawinter“likenoother” because of the pressures from a combination of Covid-19 and seasonal flu.

Health chief want people to use the NHS 111 online service – which is aimed at giving advice and support to patients with urgent but not life-threatening medical issues.

NHS England said the online service can direct patients to urgent treatment centres and walk-in clinics, GP surgeries, pharmacies andemergencydentalservices and, if needed, a call with a healthcare professional.

The call comes as health leaders warned of pressures on hospitals and ambulance services telling of having "lost" 35,000 hours queuing outside busy emergency departments.

Prof Powis said: "As we approach is going to be an extremely tough winter, like no other, using NHS 111 online first will ensure everyone who needs medical advice can access it quickly and conveniently, alongsideotherservices, while allowing us to care for the most seriously ill and injured patients in our A&Es.

"If you need urgent care but it's not life-threatening, visit 111 online first. We'll be able to put you in touch with a healthcare professional if needed and help you get the treatment you need.”

Prof Powis also stressed the importance of people taking up the offer of Covid jab as well as the flu jab if eligible.