OUT OF HOURS

If you need medical assistance out of hours (6.30pm to 8am during the week and anytime over the weekend or Bank Holidays), you need to ring the Out of Hours service on

03000 33 33 33

This service is provided by an experienced health care organisation called Herts Urgent Care.  Their staff will take some details from you and a doctor or nurse will assess your health needs, make a decision as to whether you require advice or whether you need to visit the primary care centre.  In some circumstances they may arrange for a doctor or nurse to visit you at home.  Our surgery is informed of your call to Herts Urgent Care, and any treatment that you receive, on our next working day.

If you simply need medical information or advice at any time, you can call NHS Direct on 0845 4647.  On this number a trained nurse will speak to you and give you advice on medical matters, ranging from self care to whether you should call a doctor or an ambulance.  NHS Direct also have available a large amount of information regarding local medical and related services, e.g. which pharmacies are open over the holidays, how to contact the district nurses, the number of the on call dentist etc and are a useful alternative source of help and advice.  Alternatively you can visit the NHS Direct on-line at www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk

When our surgery is closed, a taped message is available on the appointments line, giving you further details regarding emergency cover and telephone numbers to use in an emergency.