The NHS Direct helpline in England is being scrapped. What should replace it?
The government has confirmed that the 24-hour medical helpline NHS Direct will be scrapped and replaced with a new medical service.
Roughly 14,000 people a day contact the service by phone or internet for medical advice. NHS Direct also offers specialised support for patients with long term conditions, access to a GP and dental healthcare out of hours.
Critics claim the change would mean fewer qualified nurses answering calls, but Nick Chapman, chief executive of NHS Direct, told the BBC the new helpline would be better and more cost effective than NHS Direct.
From: BBC Blog
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