Phone First is a telephone service for members of the public who are unwell and considering travelling to an Emergency Department. Before attending an Emergency Department at the Royal Victoria Hospital, Mater Infirmorum Hospital or Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children you should PHONE FIRST on 028 9615 9444.

When you make a call, you will be assessed on the phone by a healthcare professional and will then be given advice and, if required, directed to the most appropriate urgent or community service to meet your treatment or care needs.

This could include direction to attend an Emergency Department, an Urgent Care Centre, a Minor Injuries Unit or being redirected to a GP, Pharmacist or other service.

Phone First does not replace 999 – it is for those patients considering attending an emergency department with a non-life-threatening issue.

For all emergencies that are life threatening, always call 999 immediately. This can include: stroke, heart attack, loss of consciousness, breathing difficulties, severe bleeding or major trauma.

Get directed to the right care, first time, Phone First.

other services promoting Phone First ( use as guidance)

https://www.volunteernow.co.uk/new-phone-first-service-for-health-social-care-trusts-in-ni/

https://online.hscni.net/belfast-and-south-eastern-trusts-launch-phone-first-services/