NHS 24 is launching its annual winter campaign with a powerful real-life story at its centre.
Daisy Gilroy a 23-year-old teacher from Finnieston, Glasgow recounts how she survived a sudden life-threatening condition thanks to NHS 24.
After collapsing in the street, Daisy used NHS 24’s digital symptom checkers to find out what she should do. Advised to contact 111, her call was answered by NHS 24 call handler Shirley Lannan, who, together with a senior charge nurse, directed Daisy to urgent care – ultimately saving her life.
Daisy and Shirley will meet for the first time at NHS 24’s campaign launch, sharing their story to highlight how helpful digital services, like NHS 24’s symptom checkers, can be.
Daisy describes what happened: “After my funny episode, I felt a bit silly about coming forward to get more advice because I didn’t feel that badly. I used the symptom checkers to put my mind at rest and was told to call 111. The NHS 24 staff on the phone were really reassuring and made me feel like I wasn’t burdening anyone.”
Daisy was advised by NHS 24 to attend A&E and was ultimately diagnosed with a pulmonary embolism in each lung. She was told by medics that she wouldn’t have survived if she hadn’t decided to seek advice when she did.
Dr Ron Cook is NHS 24’s Medical Director. He said:
“Digital services like the symptom checkers found on NHS inform and the NHS 24 Online app use the same clinical advice as our 111 service. Daisy’s story shows just how vital accessible digital services are in helping people find the right care and demonstrates that using trusted NHS resources is essential when seeking health information.
“Our ‘Powered by People’ campaign highlights how every NHS 24 service is backed by real NHS experts. Whether you use our digital tools or call 111, experienced professionals are there to support you. This campaign celebrates the crucial role of our staff, ensuring that behind every digital solution is a caring team dedicated to your wellbeing.”
NHS 24’s advice for being health prepared this winter:
- If you become unwell, the symptom checkers on NHS inform can help you decide what to do next.
- Check your repeat prescription. Order only what you need, in plenty of time.
- Keep some medicines to treat common illnesses at home.
- Be aware that your GP and local pharmacy will have amended opening hours over the festive holidays.
Health Secretary Neil Gray said: “NHS 24’s digital services, such as NHS inform or the NHS 24 Online App, are an excellent first port of call when you’re feeling unwell and are uncertain about the next steps to take.
“Many people can find the advice they need using these digital platforms, allowing them to safely manage common winter illnesses at home. This approach helps ensure everyone is accessing the right care in the right place and that urgent and emergency care services remain available for those, like Daisy, who need immediate advice and support in a critical situation.
“A key part of our winter response is prevention and our national flu vaccination programme is well underway. Vaccination is one of the best ways to protect our own health and those around us – with flu cases rising and initial evidence suggesting this may be an early and potentially difficult flu season, I urge all those who are eligible to get vaccinated.
“We have significantly increased Scottish Ambulance Service staffing and we are investing in capacity in our NHS 24 call centres so that people are getting the right support quickly and when they need it.”
For more advice on staying healthy this winter, including symptom checkers and health and care tips visit the NHS 24 winter campaign page: https://www.nhsinform.scot/winter