Health Help Now RGPA

Health Help Now is a website which has been optimised for use on mobile devices that have internet access. This means it can be used on any smartphone or tablet with an internet browser. Health Help Now can also be accessed via desktop and laptop computers with internet access.

If you require urgent treatment for symptoms which are not listed on Health Help Now, please ring NHS 111.

Richmond GP Alliance (RGPA) and Health Help Now aim to help people find the right service in Richmond upon Thames for their health needs, especially when they need medical help fast but it is not a life-threatening emergency.

The Richmond General Practice Alliance is a federation of all the NHS General Practitioners in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames. It is a company limited by shares and all of the member practices are share holders. It is run by a board of doctors and practice managers who all have many years of experience of work within the NHS.

Health Help Now has been developed by South East Commissioning Support Unit with input from Richmond GPs, hospital doctors, and other health professionals. It lists common symptoms and offers suggestions for treatment. The one which works best for most people is listed first and the other suggestions follow in order. Health Help Now then links through to local services, and shows whether they are open or closed and their location.

For patients using an alternative to A&E could mean:

• More convenient service
• Little or no time in a waiting room
• Treatment by professionals who are experts in common illnesses and injuries – rather than A&E staff who specialise in emergencies.

For the NHS this could mean

• Faster treatment for people who are seriously hurt or ill
• Better use of staff and NHS funds

By using Health Help Now you are helping the NHS save A&E for those who really need it.