Plan for non-urgent health number

Up to half of calls to 999 may be non-emergencies

A new non-emergency NHS number could be introduced across England, it has been announced.

Ofcom has launched a consultation on the 111 number ahead of pilots which are expected to take place next year.

The Department of Health said the number would provide an alternative to 999 in cases where people do not need to go to A&E.

This could include when they need information about out-of-hours GP services and walk-in centres.

The number is not intended to replace NHS Direct, but take the pressure off 999.

Estimates suggest up to half of 999 calls do not need an emergency response.

Health Minister Mike O'Brien said: "Patients have told us that they need clear, easy advice on how to find healthcare when they don't need to go to A&E."

Price

Ofcom are asking whether it should be introduced and whether it should be charged for.

Three pricing options are being put forward - free, 10p per call and 3p per minute in the consultation which runs until the end of August.

Ultimately, Ofcom can block the Department of Health using the number, but this is thought unlikely.

Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland will all be monitoring the pilots to see if it would be worthwhile introducing elsewhere in the UK.

The move has been welcomed by the ambulance service.

Liz Kendall, director of the Ambulance Service Network, said: "A new phone number for people with urgent but not life-threatening health problems could help transform patient care.

"111 would be easy to remember, simple to use, and help stop people feeling confused about who they should ring when they need help. "