MOBILE phone users in the Huddersfield area can now find their nearest health services via text message.
NHS Direct has launched an SMS service where anyone wishing to find the closest GP, dentist, pharmacy, optician, walk-in centre, A&E or hospital, can text the name of the service required, and a postcode, to 61121.
They will receive a reply with details of the service.
NHS Direct receives around 22,000 calls a day, and more than eight million each year. It is hoped text enquiries will ease the pressure on the service.
Ann Grain, of NHS Direct, said: “A lot of calls we get are people asking where the nearest dentist is.
“The text service provides availability for more urgent calls. It is designed for ease and to keep up with new technology.”
Further developments will be added soon including health alerts and a feedback option.
For more information go to www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk.
