Children's Health / 30 March, 2026 / Ellie Thompson

TV GP Dr Ellie Cannon On NHS Tips For Parents: How To Get Faster Healthcare Without The 8am Rush

Between juggling work, school runs and the never-ending list of childhood illnesses, knowing where to turn for quick medical support isn’t always straightforward. For many families, the default is still the daily 8am scramble for a GP appointment, or heading to A&E in the hope of being seen quicker.

But there are easier, faster ways to get the right care.

In fact, 42 per cent of people admit they’ve visited A&E for a non-emergency simply because they thought it would be quicker. And a recent NHS survey found that almost a quarter (24%) of people later realised their issue could have been handled by another NHS service.

Why parents need to rethink how they access care

TV doctor Dr Ellie Cannon is supporting a new NHS campaign encouraging families to use the right service, in the right place, at the right time.

“It’s common for people to default to the 8am scramble for a GP appointment, or to going to A&E, as it’s what feels most familiar,” she explains.

“But there are often much quicker and more convenient ways to deal with your health concern while getting on with your day.”

From NHS 111 to your local pharmacist and digital tools like GP online forms and the NHS App, there are now more ways than ever to access care without the stress.

Real-life reassurance for busy parents

Former World Cup alpine ski racer and mum Chemmy Alcott has seen first-hand how valuable these services can be.

“When my son trapped his finger in a door, the speed and care we received from NHS 111 was incredible,” she says. “I also find the NHS App really easy to use, and it makes such a difference as a busy parent.”

The tools parents aren’t using enough

Despite how helpful they can be, many families still aren’t fully confident using NHS services beyond their GP.

Only 47% feel confident using a community pharmacist
Around 60% feel confident using NHS 111
Just 57% feel confident using the NHS App
Which means many are missing out on faster, easier support.

5 NHS tips for parents to get faster care

1. Skip the 8am GP rush and go online

Mornings are hectic enough without sitting on hold. For non-urgent concerns, most GP practices now offer online forms via their website, allowing you to explain symptoms in your own time.

These are reviewed by your GP team, and you’ll usually hear back within one working day.

2. Don’t wait – act on symptoms early

It’s tempting to wait and see, especially with children, but early action often leads to quicker resolution.

The sooner you contact your GP practice, the sooner they can guide you to the right care, whether that’s a GP, nurse, pharmacist or self-care advice.

3. Use the NHS App to manage everything in one place

The NHS App is one of the easiest ways to stay on top of your family’s healthcare.

You can:

• order repeat prescriptions
• manage appointments
• check test results
• receive reminders

It’s designed to fit around your day, whether you’re at home, at work or on the school run.

4. Stay on top of medication

Running out of medication at the wrong time is something every parent wants to avoid.

Using the NHS App, you can order repeat prescriptions quickly and even track them, making it much easier to stay organised, especially before weekends or holidays.

5. Think pharmacy first

Your local pharmacist can help with far more than you might expect.

From sore throats to UTIs and minor illnesses, pharmacists can offer advice and, in some cases, provide prescription medication without needing a GP appointment.

It’s often the quickest and easiest first step.

The takeaway

For busy parents, time matters, especially when it comes to your child’s health.

The NHS offers more options than ever before, and knowing how to use them can save you time, reduce stress and ensure you’re getting the right care quickly.

Because sometimes, the best solution isn’t the most obvious one.

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