GP surgeries are usually the first contact if you have a health problem. They can treat many conditions and give health advice. They can also refer you to other NHS services.

If you can’t get an appointment with your GP or can’t get there during the day due to work or other commitments you can use the Enhanced Access Service.

General practitioners (GPs) treat all common medical conditions and refer patients to hospitals and other medical services for urgent and specialist treatment.

Patients who have an urgent eye problem and need to attend the Emergency Eye Department at Sunderland Eye Infirmary should now call a new 24/7 emergency number – 0191 5699952 – before arriving at the hospital.

Services the NHS provides if you need urgent or emergency medical help.

You’ll usually need a GP referral to access hospital treatment, except in an emergency.

Recovery at Home operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, ready to respond quickly to provide support during times of illness or if someone experiences an unexpected change in their condition that could develop into a crisis.

Find out how to access NHS mental health services and where to get urgent help.

Find out where to book and NHS sight test.

Find sexual health clinics, contraception and pregnancy services, sexually transmitted infection (STI) services or where to get help after rape and sexual assault.

Find hospital maternity units, young parent support, pregnancy exercise and relaxation classes, unplanned pregnancy information and support and information about abortion (pregnancy termination).

The NHS provides many services not listed above. A full list can be found here.