Common illnesses, careful triage
Many coughs, colds and short fevers settle with self-care. An online GP can help you understand red flags, symptom duration, hydration, work/school fitness and whether antibiotics or further review are likely needed.
Antibiotics are not routine for viral illnesses. Your doctor will explain why a medicine is — or is not — appropriate.
When not to wait for an online slot
Seek urgent care for breathing difficulty, confusion, a non-blanching rash, severe dehydration, chest pain, or fever in a very young infant. Call 999 or 112 if life-threatening. Parents: for children, use paediatric pathways and escalate early if worried.
Often suitable for online review
- Adult cough, cold and flu-like symptoms without red flags
- Fever with otherwise stable appearance when remote advice is reasonable
- Sick cert discussion after clinical assessment when appropriate
Not for online booking
- Severe respiratory distress or suspected serious infection — urgent/ED care
- Infants and high-risk patients who need prompt in-person assessment
Common questions
- Can I get antibiotics online for a cold?
- Most colds are viral. Antibiotics are only considered when a doctor judges a bacterial infection is likely and remote prescribing is safe.