NHS merges Direct and Choices websites

The NHS has placed all its healthcare information on one website with the merger of the NHS Direct and NHS Choices websites.

Previously, NHS Direct provided health advice and information to patients and the public and NHS Choices promoted health and wellbeing and allowed patients to make an informed decision about healthcare providers.

The new website provides all this information in one place, making it one of the most comprehensive health information resources available.

Website users will be able to access the self-help guide, which provides a symptom checker and helps patients decide if they need to seek medical advice, while the health encyclopaedia contains accurate information on more than 800 conditions.

The public are also able to find health services that suite their needs in an area local to them. The online tool allows you to select a service such as A&E, dentist or optician or to search for treatment available for a specific condition such as asthma. Users can compare hospitals for treatment and services and read reviews from other patients.

The website also offers an online enquiry service where users can submit and receive answers to non-emergency health questions. However, NHS Direct will continue to provide its telephone service.

Health minister Ben Bradshaw, said: "By putting all our online health information on www.nhs.uk, the public will easily be able to find out the most suitable health options for them, from where to have their treatment to the best ways of keeping fit and healthy.

"This single site will make it easier for the public to find reliable health information quickly and will give relevant and accurate advice that will help them to make their own decisions and choices about their health and healthcare"