Conditions and suitability
National Health Online is designed for clearly-defined, non-emergency conditions that can be safely assessed and managed through telehealth. Some presentations are not suitable and require in-person or emergency care.
Clinical scope
The exact list of conditions supported by NHO may change over time and will depend on current clinical guidelines and local regulation. The following examples illustrate the types of presentations that may or may not be suitable for remote assessment.
General & minor conditions
- • Mild skin infections (e.g. impetigo, mild cellulitis)
- • Uncomplicated urinary tract infection in adults
- • Mild allergic reactions without breathing difficulty
- • Simple respiratory infections without red-flag symptoms
Long-term condition support
- • Medication reviews for stable long-term conditions
- • Repeat prescription requests where appropriate
- • Lifestyle advice and signposting to local services
Not suitable for NHO
- • Chest pain or suspected heart attack
- • Severe shortness of breath or wheeze
- • Sudden weakness, facial droop or speech problems
- • Major trauma, heavy bleeding or severe burns
- • Any situation where you would otherwise call 999 or attend A&E
If you are experiencing any of the above, please seek urgent in-person medical care or contact emergency services.
Clinical discretion
Individual clinicians will use their professional judgement when reviewing each consultation. They may decide that in-person review is required, even for conditions that are sometimes managed remotely. NHO does not guarantee that a prescription or specific outcome will be provided for any given condition.