Who do I see?
Not every health concern needs a GP appointment. This page tells you who can help with what - pharmacists handle a lot more than people realise, and there are services you can self-refer to without going through us first.
Quick guide
Tap any condition to see who handles it and where to get help. Listed alphabetically across two columns on larger screens. Search the page (Ctrl+F or Cmd+F) for a specific symptom or service.
Emergency or urgent?
For life-threatening emergencies call 999. For mental health crises, call 111 and select option 2, available 24/7 and free. For urgent advice when we're closed call NHS 111 or visit 111 online.
Conditions and services A to Z
Abdominal painGP
If pain is severe, sudden, or you also have a fever or are vomiting blood, call 999 or 111. For ongoing or persistent stomach pain, book a GP appointment.
Acute asthmaA&E or walk-in centre
Severe asthma attacks need urgent care. Use your reliever inhaler, call 999 if symptoms aren't easing.
For routine asthma reviews and inhaler checks, book with the Practice Nurse.
Alcohol advice and supportAlcoholics Anonymous, GP
For confidential peer support, visit Alcoholics Anonymous. The GP can refer you to local treatment services if needed.
AnxietyGP, self-referral talking therapies
Book a GP appointment to talk things through. You can also self-refer to NHS talking therapies (formerly IAPT) without needing a GP referral.
Athlete's footCommunity pharmacist
Your pharmacist can recommend over-the-counter antifungal creams, sprays, or powders. No GP appointment needed.
Back painPharmacist, MSK team, or GP after 7 days
Most back pain settles with paracetamol or ibuprofen, gentle movement, and time. If it lasts more than a week or is severe, our MSK team (Mondays and Wednesdays) can assess and advise.
Blocked ears (wax)Community pharmacist
Speak to a pharmacist about earwax build-up. They'll usually recommend olive oil drops or sodium bicarbonate. The wax should clear in about a week.
Don't use cotton buds or anything else to dig at it - this makes things worse.
Blood pressure monitoringPractice Nurse or HCA
Most pharmacies can check your blood pressure for free as part of the NHS Blood Pressure Check service. If readings are high, book a GP appointment for further review.
Blood testsPractice Nurse or HCA
Blood test appointments can only be booked if a doctor or nurse has requested them. Call reception or send us an online request to ask if you're not sure whether you need one.
Blue Badge formsLocal council (not the surgery)
Apply online via gov.uk/apply-blue-badge. The council handles applications - we don't complete forms for you. They'll contact us for medical information if they need it.
BoilsPharmacist or GP
Most boils heal on their own. A warm compress helps. If it's very painful, spreading, or you have a fever, book a GP appointment.
Breastfeeding adviceHealth Visitor
Your Health Visitor is the first port of call. The NHS Start4Life service also has plenty of guidance.
BreathlessnessGP, or 999 if severe
Sudden, severe breathlessness is an emergency - call 999. For ongoing issues like a chest infection, COPD review, or unexplained breathlessness, book a GP appointment.
Bruised ribsPharmacist, GP, or urgent care
Pain relief from a pharmacist is usually enough. If you're struggling to breathe, see a GP or go to urgent care.
BurnsPractice Nurse, or urgent care if severe
Cool a minor burn under cold running water for 20 minutes. For larger burns, deep burns, or any burn on a child's face, hands, or feet, go to urgent care or A&E.
CellulitisGP
Cellulitis is a skin infection that needs antibiotics. If you've got a spreading red, hot, painful area on your skin, book a GP appointment the same day or call 111.
Cervical smearPractice Nurse (female)
All women aged 25 to 65 who have ever been sexually active should have regular smears. The standard interval is around 5 yearly through the NHS Cervical Screening Programme, which sends invitations when yours is due. We only send reminders if you haven't attended; if you have, book a day you're not on your period.
Chest infectionsGP if it lasts more than a week
Most chest infections clear up on their own. Stay hydrated, rest, and take paracetamol for fever. Book a GP appointment if you're not improving after a week, coughing up blood, or have an existing lung condition.
Chest pain999 if severe, GP if not
Sudden, severe, or crushing chest pain - call 999. Pain that comes and goes over days needs a GP review.
Chronic heart disease reviewGP or Practice Nurse
If you're on the CHD register, we'll invite you for an annual review. If you're worried about symptoms in between, book an earlier appointment.
Coils and implantsSexual health clinic
We don't fit or remove coils or contraceptive implants at the practice. Ask reception about local fitting services or contact a sexual health clinic.
Cold soresCommunity pharmacist
Antiviral creams from the pharmacy work best if applied at the first tingle. No GP appointment needed.
ColdsCommunity pharmacist
Antibiotics don't work on colds. Rest, fluids, and over-the-counter remedies from the pharmacy will get you through it.
Constipation or pilesPharmacist, or GP if it lasts a week
Pharmacists can recommend laxatives, fibre supplements, or pile treatments. If symptoms persist or you notice blood, book a GP appointment.
Contraception and family planningGP or Practice Nurse
Available in any routine GP clinic. Book to see the GP for an initial assessment, then the Practice Nurse for repeat prescriptions once you've completed your first three months. Smears should be up to date.
CoughPharmacist, or GP if over 3 weeks
Most coughs clear up in a few weeks. A pharmacist can recommend cough remedies. Book a GP appointment if it lasts more than three weeks or you're coughing up blood.
CystitisPractice Nurse, pharmacist, or GP
For a first-ever episode or recurrent cystitis, book with the Practice Nurse or GP. Mild cases can often be managed by a pharmacist via the Pharmacy First scheme.
Dementia screeningGP
If you're worried about memory or thinking, book a GP appointment. We can do an initial assessment and refer to the local memory service if needed.
Dental problemsDentist (not the surgery)
GPs can't treat dental issues. Find a dentist or call 111 for emergency dental advice. We won't prescribe antibiotics for dental pain.
Depot injection (contraception)Practice Nurse
The first depot is given by the GP after an assessment. Subsequent injections are with the Practice Nurse. Smears should be up to date.
DepressionGP, self-referral talking therapies
Book a GP appointment to talk about how you're feeling. You can also self-refer to NHS talking therapies without a GP referral.
Diabetes monitoringGP, Practice Nurse, or HCA
Diabetic patients get an annual review covering bloods, foot check, retinopathy referral, and medication review. We'll invite you.
DiarrhoeaPharmacist, or GP if persistent
Most cases clear up in a week. Stay hydrated. See a GP if it lasts more than a week, you work with food, or you're a carer.
Diet and lifestyle changesHCA or Practice Nurse
Book a lifestyle review with the HCA or Practice Nurse for advice on weight, smoking, alcohol, and activity.
DizzinessPractice Nurse or HCA first
Causes range from low blood pressure to inner-ear issues. The Nurse or HCA can do initial checks and then route you to the GP if needed.
DressingsPractice Nurse or HCA
Routine dressing changes are with the Practice Nurse or HCA. Call reception to book.
Drug addictionTalk to Frank, Cheshire Substance Misuse Service
For confidential advice on drugs, visit Talk to Frank or call them on 0300 123 6600. For local treatment services, the GP can refer you.
DWP letters (PIP and ESA)Not the surgery
When you apply for PIP or ESA, the DWP contacts your GP directly for medical information. We can't write separate support letters - the information we provide to DWP usually covers what they need.
You can request a copy of your medical records free of charge if you want to support your application yourself. Citizens Advice and Disability Rights UK can help with applications.
Ear care and ear wax (irrigation)Practice Nurse or HCA
If you think you need ear irrigation (syringing), book with the Nurse or HCA. Use olive oil drops for several days first to soften the wax.
EaracheGP, or pharmacist for pain relief
A pharmacist can recommend pain relief. Book a GP appointment if it lasts more than a few days, especially in children.
EczemaPharmacist, or GP if persistent
Pharmacists can recommend emollients and mild steroid creams. See a GP if it doesn't improve after four weeks or becomes infected.
Emergency contraceptionPharmacist, family planning clinic, or GP
Pharmacists can supply emergency contraception (the morning-after pill) free of charge in most cases. Available same day. Family planning clinics and GP appointments are also options.
Eye injuriesUrgent care or A&E
Eye injuries need urgent assessment. Go straight to A&E or an eye casualty unit. Don't try to remove anything stuck in the eye.
FlatulencePharmacist or GP
A pharmacist can recommend remedies. Book a GP appointment if it's persistent, painful, or you've also lost weight.
FluPharmacist, or GP if symptoms persist
Most flu clears up in a week. Rest, fluids, and paracetamol. See a GP if symptoms last more than a week or you're struggling to breathe.
Flu vaccinePractice Nurse or HCA
Annual flu vaccinations are offered to eligible patients each autumn. We'll invite you. Pharmacies also offer NHS flu jabs to eligible groups.
Forms, certificates, and medicalsReception (paid service)
Most non-NHS forms (insurance, employment medicals, holiday cancellation) require payment before we complete them. Charges follow BMA guidelines. Allow up to 21 days for the work to be done.
We don't sign passport forms - see approved occupations.
Fungal infectionsPharmacist, or GP if persistent
Antifungal creams from a pharmacist treat most cases. See a GP if it doesn't clear up or keeps coming back.
General health adviceNHS 111, NHS website, pharmacist
For non-urgent medical advice when we're closed, call 111 or use 111 online. NHS.uk has reliable health information for almost everything.
Genital infections (including herpes)Sexual health clinic or GP
Sexual health (GUM) clinics specialise in genital infections and are free and confidential. The GP can also see you.
Hay feverCommunity pharmacist
Antihistamines, eye drops, and nasal sprays are all available from a pharmacist. No GP appointment needed.
Head injuriesPharmacist, GP, or urgent care
Minor bumps need pain relief and rest. Loss of consciousness, vomiting, severe headache, confusion, or any concerning symptoms - go straight to urgent care or A&E.
Head liceCommunity pharmacist or school nurse
Pharmacists supply medicated lotions and combs. Treatment usually needs repeating after a week. Schools and Health Visitors can also help.
HeadachesGP if persistent
Most headaches respond to paracetamol or ibuprofen, rest, and fluids. See a GP if headaches are frequent, severe, or come with other symptoms like vision changes.
Holiday cancellation certificatesReception (paid service)
Cancellation forms aren't covered by the NHS. Bring or post the form with payment. Allow up to 21 days for completion.
Housing support lettersNot the surgery (Shelter England)
We don't usually write housing support letters. Local Housing Authorities request medical reports from us directly when they need them. For advice on housing, contact Shelter England.
HyperventilationGP
Often linked to anxiety. The GP can help work out what's triggering it and discuss treatment.
IndigestionPharmacist, or GP if persistent
Pharmacists can recommend antacids and acid-reducing medicines. See a GP if it's ongoing or you're struggling to swallow.
Infected woundsPractice Nurse
Book with the Practice Nurse for assessment and dressing. If you have a fever or the redness is spreading rapidly, call 111 or come in same day.
Insect bites and stingsPharmacist, or GP if infected
Antihistamines and creams from a pharmacist help with itching. See a GP if a bite becomes very red, swollen, or you feel unwell.
InsomniaPharmacist or GP
Pharmacists can recommend short-term sleep aids. For ongoing sleep problems, see a GP - we may suggest sleep hygiene advice or refer for CBT.
Insurance reportsReception (paid service)
Insurance forms aren't covered by the NHS. Bring or post the form, completed and signed where you can. Allow up to 21 days.
Medication reviewsClinical Pharmacist or GP
If you're on regular medications, you'll be invited for an annual review. Have your annual bloods done first, and bring all your medications with you.
Mental healthGP, Samaritans (116 123), 111
In crisis: call 111 and select the mental health option, or contact Samaritans on 116 123 (free, 24/7). For ongoing support, book a GP appointment or self-refer to NHS talking therapies.
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 999.
MolesGP
Book a GP appointment if a mole changes shape, colour, size, or becomes itchy or bleeds. We can refer urgently to dermatology if needed.
Mouth problemsDentist, or pharmacist for ulcers
Dental abscesses, toothache, gum issues - see a dentist. Mouth ulcers and cold sores can often be treated by a pharmacist.
Nappy rashPharmacist or Health Visitor
Barrier creams from a pharmacist usually do the trick. Talk to your Health Visitor if it's persistent or spreading.
Neck painPharmacist or GP if persistent
Pain relief from a pharmacist plus gentle movement gets most neck pain settling within a week. See a GP if it persists, you have numbness or weakness in your arms, or pain after an injury.
NosebleedsSelf-care, or urgent care if severe
Pinch your nose just below the bony bridge, lean forward, hold for 10-15 minutes. Don't tilt your head back. If bleeding doesn't stop after 20 minutes, go to urgent care.
Panic attacksGP
Book a GP appointment. Treatment options include talking therapy and (sometimes) medication.
Passport formsNot the surgery
We don't sign passport forms. See approved occupations who can countersign.
Period problemsGP
Heavy, painful, irregular, or absent periods are all worth talking about. Book a GP appointment.
PhobiasGP or self-referral talking therapies
Phobias are treatable. Talk to a GP or self-refer to NHS talking therapies.
Pneumococcal vaccinePractice Nurse or HCA
Offered routinely to over-65s and to younger people with certain long-term conditions.
RashesPharmacist, or GP if persistent
Most rashes can be assessed by a pharmacist. Book a GP appointment if a rash lasts more than a week, spreads quickly, or doesn't fade under glass pressure (call 999 for that last one).
Rectal problemsPharmacist or GP after 7 days
For piles and itching, a pharmacist can help. See a GP if you notice bleeding, lumps, or changes in bowel habit.
Removal of stitchesPractice Nurse or HCA
Stitches from minor surgery or A&E procedures are removed by the Practice Nurse or HCA. Book through reception.
Shingles vaccinePractice Nurse or HCA
Offered to eligible patients aged 65 and over. We'll invite you when you're due.
Sick notes (fit notes)Self-certify first 7 days, then GP
For the first 7 days, you can self-certify by filling in an SC2 form for your employer. After that, book a GP appointment.
Hospital discharge fit notes are issued by the hospital team, not us.
SinusitisPharmacist, or GP if persistent
Most sinusitis clears up within two weeks. Decongestants and salt-water rinses from a pharmacist help. See a GP if it lasts longer or symptoms are severe.
Skin conditionsPharmacist, or GP if persistent
Many skin problems can be treated by a pharmacist. Book a GP appointment for anything new, growing, persistent, or changing in colour.
Smoking cessationNurse, GP, or Smokefree
The NHS Better Health quit smoking service has tools and a free Personal Quit Plan. Local stop smoking services run drop-in clinics.
Sore eyesOptician, pharmacist, or GP
For minor irritation, a pharmacist or optician can usually help. See a GP if there's pain, vision changes, or it persists.
Sore penisSexual health clinic, or GP if persistent
Sexual health clinics handle most issues quickly and confidentially. See a GP if the problem persists or is recurring.
Sore throatPharmacist or Pharmacy First
Most sore throats clear up in a week. Lozenges, paracetamol, and gargling salt water all help. Pharmacy First means a pharmacist can supply antibiotics for a sore throat if needed - no GP appointment required.
Sprains and strainsPharmacist, MSK, or urgent care
Rest, ice, compression, elevation - the standard RICE protocol. Pharmacists can recommend pain relief. If pain is severe or you can't weight-bear, go to urgent care for an X-ray.
StingsCommunity pharmacist
Pharmacists can recommend antihistamines and creams. Severe allergic reactions need 999.
StyesPharmacist, optician, or GP
Warm compresses and time clear most styes. A pharmacist or optician can advise. See a GP if it's very painful or doesn't clear up.
SunburnCommunity pharmacist
Cool baths, after-sun, ibuprofen for pain. Stay out of the sun until it heals.
Termination of pregnancySexual health services or self-referral
You can self-refer to a termination service - you don't need to see a GP first. They'll talk through your options confidentially.
Tetanus injectionPractice Nurse or HCA
If you have a deep or dirty wound and your tetanus cover may be out of date, the Nurse or HCA can update it.
ThreadwormsCommunity pharmacist
Treatment for the whole household is available from a pharmacist without a prescription.
Thrush (vaginal)Pharmacist or sexual health clinic
Treatments are available from a pharmacist without a prescription. Sexual health clinics also help.
Tiredness and fatigueSelf-help first, then GP
Sleep, diet, stress, and screen time often play a role. NHS Live Well has practical advice. If tiredness persists, book a GP appointment.
Travel vaccinationsPractice Nurse
Book at least six weeks before you travel. We give routine NHS travel jabs; some need to be paid for or sourced from a travel clinic.
TravelHealthPro lists what you need for your destination.
Urine infectionsGP, Practice Nurse, or Pharmacy First
Bring a fresh urine sample (sample pots available at reception). Women aged 16-64 with simple UTI symptoms can also be treated under Pharmacy First without an appointment.
Vaginal dischargeSexual health clinic, Practice Nurse, or GP
Sexual health clinics are quick and confidential. The Practice Nurse or GP can also see you. NHS guide.
VerrucaeCommunity pharmacist
Pharmacists can advise on over-the-counter treatments. Most verrucae clear up on their own eventually.
Vitamin B12 injectionPractice Nurse or HCA
Routine B12 injections are with the Practice Nurse or HCA on a schedule we set.
VomitingPharmacist, or GP if persistent
Most vomiting from sickness bugs settles in a few days. Stay hydrated. See a GP if it lasts more than a few days, you can't keep fluids down, or it's a young child.
Warfarin monitoringReferred service
If you're taking warfarin, we refer you to the local anticoagulation service for INR monitoring. Talk to the GP if you're not sure what your monitoring plan is.
WartsCommunity pharmacist
Pharmacists can advise on over-the-counter treatments. We don't routinely treat warts on the NHS - they usually clear up on their own.
Don't see what you're looking for?
Call reception on 01270 441672 or use our online form and we'll point you to the right person.