You can also get general health advice 24 hours a day by calling NHS Direct 0845 4647.

Your Questions Answered

How will I access the OXEMS service?

• For medical assistance between 6.30pm and 8.00am Monday to Friday and at weekends and bank holidays you should telephone 0845 345 8995.

What will happen when I call this number?

• Your call will be answered by Oxfordshire Ambulance Service (OAS) who will take your details and pass them to the duty doctor.  The doctor will phone you back to discuss the problem and advise the best course of action.  This may be telephone advice or an appointment at the OXEMS centre or a home visit.

What happens if I forget the telephone number?

• Phone your usual GP surgery. Your call will either be automatically diverted or an answer phone message will give you the number to call.

What if I don't have transport?

• Patients will be expected to try every available means to get to the OXEMS  centre if they need an appointment.  We know that family, friends and neighbours are normally happy to help out in an urgent situation.  GPs can treat more patients if patients travel to the GP rather than expecting a home visit.  Home visits will be made where clinically indicated.

As there is no Saturday surgery and I work all week, how can I pick up my repeat prescription?

• You will be able to make an arrangement with your surgery to pick up your prescription at a local chemist.

What if I run out of my medicines?  Will I be able to get them from OXEMS?

• We all have a responsibility to look after ourselves and making sure we have sufficient medicines is a personal responsibility.  If you do find that you run out, you should contact your usual pharmacist who may be able to help you.  However, you will be expected to pay the full price for the drugs which you will then be able to claim back once you have your own GP's prescription.  Please remember this is an emergency service.

What happens if I phone NHS Direct and they say I should see a doctor?

• Your call will be passed automatically to OAS who will take the details and pass them to OXEMS.  A doctor will call you back.

Should I use OXEMS or go to the Emergency Department?

• The Emergency Department (previously A&E) at the John Radcliffe Hospital is essentially for injuries and 999 emergencies.  OXEMS is for problems you would normally contact your GP surgery about but that cannot wait until the surgery is open.

Get The Right Treatment

By making the right choice at the right time you can get the best possible treatment through the NHS.  Many everyday illnesses can be managed easily at home, while advice is freely available from pharmacists or NHS Direct on 0845 4647.