Need a Doctor Out of Hours?
What should I do if I need to see a doctor and my surgery is closed?
If you need immediate care and cannot wait until surgery is next open, you should ring your usual GP’s phone number. You will be given a new number to call for ‘out of hours’ service.
When you ring the out of hours number a trained call handler will answer your call and take some personal details and basic information about the problem you are calling about. They may need to ask you about any medical conditions you have and it would be helpful if you could provide details of any medication you are taking.
Will I be able to see a doctor?
You will then receive a call from a doctor who will advise on the most appropriate level of care or offer an appointment at Cardiff Royal Infirmary or University Hospital of Wales, for Cardiff patients or Barry Hospital for Vale patients. You will then be given treatment. If a home visit is necessary, it will be arranged at this time. It may be that you are given health advice or asked to consult your GP during normal surgery hours.
Will I be given a prescription?
Yes. If you need any urgent medication, this may be supplied when you are seen.
Will my own GP be informed?
Yes. The next working day your GP will be notified that you have contacted the ‘out of hours’ service and told of any follow-up treatment you may require.
In an emergency situation you should still call 999.
