I would like to reply to Mervyn Williams’ letter of Friday, January 2 – 111 (NHS Choices) has no use in an emergency.

I too have had problems with this service.

Over the Christmas period, I was in great pain with an existing health condition, so I called the 111 service for advice.

The person on the other end of the line went through a lengthy verbal questionaire with me, which I found very tedious to answer as I was in so much pain.

They also asked if I was mobile, which I said I was not as I had just had a foot operation.

I was then told that I would have a return phone call from a qualified health professional. Half an hour later I received a call from someone from the local hospital asking if I could attend there for help.

I once again said I was immobile and could not drive. Again I was informed that someone would phone me back, I waited and waited, and about 5.30pm I received that phone call, and was told as it was a Sunday the pharmacies were closed and they could not give me any medication and was advised to see my doctor in the morning.

It was fortunate that by this time I had taken some painkillers and the pain had subsided. I shudder to think if this had been a real emergency.

Yes, in my opinion 111 is a waste of time.

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