DoctorLink - symptom assessment

We have a clever new self-care tool and we are very excited to share it with you. It's called DoctorLink. The tool asks your symptoms and then offers self-care advice, or if needed, books an appointment for you. The tool is available to access 24/7 online or via a smart phone app, bringing the clinician to your pocket whenever you need them. How good is that?!

DoctorLink is an established clinical tool with over 15 years of real life experience behind it. We would suggest that you use it to decide if you need an appointment. Because if you do, it will book you one!

Self-Care Resources - What's out there?

The best places to start if you're looking for self care advice are the NHS choices and Patient.co.uk websites. Both sites have powerful search functions. They can answer your health questions and help you manage your minor ailments without the need for an appointment. Some examples....
  • My child has a fever. What should I watch for? How long can I give paracetamol?
  • I'm pregnant and my child has chicken pox. What do I do?
  • What's the best treatment for nits?
  • Is it safe to eat grapefruit if I take atorvastatin?
  • Which medicines should I keep at home?
  • Most coughs don't need an appointment. When do I need to see my GP?
  • I've just been diagnosed with diabetes. Does that mean I can't eat cake any more?
Your pharmacist can help with most minor illnesses without the need for an appointment. Just walk in and ask. Speak to your pharmacist if you have questions about the medications you take. They will be pleased to offer you a free medication use review.
For a directory of local NHS services (Pharmacy, Dentist, Opticians etc) visit the CCG's service finder wesite. If you are looking for more practical help (charities, support groups, events) then make visit the WellAware website. See what they offer by watching this video.

The self care forum have a useful collection of fact-sheets giving you advice on how to manage many simple illnesses at home. A wide range of illnesses are included; headaches, back pain, acne, fever, constipation and many more. Our local commissioning group also offer their own page with information on managing minor ailments.
There are various self help books available so you can increase your understanding of your long term conditions e.g. COPD, diabetes, depression etc. Follow the link to the Reading-Well pages for more info.

If you have children be sure to check out our Self-Care for children pages which contains lots of useful information and links to external content. You will find common condition leaflets produced by the Bristol Royal Hospital for Children helping you to look after your kids when they are unwell with coughs, cold, vomiting, fever etc.