Overseas Visitors
For the benefit of overseas visitors, let me explain about emergency phone numbers in the UK. The main emergency number is 999. The international number 112 has the same effect. This is the number for police, ambulance, fire brigade, coastguard, cliff rescue, mountain rescue and cave rescue. This number should be used only when urgent attendance by the emergency services is required – for example when someone is seriously ill or injured, or a crime is in progress. Calls are free, and 999 can be dialled from a locked mobile phone. If you want to contact the police but it's not an emergency then the number to ring is 101. A general rule is that 'if the crime is not currently in progress, use 101'. It can also be used to contact police with information, or with a general enquiry.
GP Appointments
The main medical practice is the Argyle Medical Group, whose main surgery is at Argyle Street, Pembroke Dock, SA72 6HL, on 01646 624198. To get an appointment with a doctor you have to wait until the day you want the appointment, then, at 8am, repeatedly dial the practice number until you get put on hold, instead of hearing the engaged tone. Then you have to hold and wait for someone to answer. You can ask to be seen in their surgery in Pembroke (St Oswald's Surgery, The Parade, Pembroke, SA71 4LD), but be aware that parking here can be a problem.
Out of Hours
In the case of a medical emergency when the surgery is closed telephone the Care on Call Pembrokeshire service run by the Local Health Board which is responsible for providing urgent medical cover from 6.30pm until 8.00am during the weekdays and during the whole of the weekend. People who are in need can then be seen by a Doctor. The Out Of Hours Emergency number is 01437 769811
Accident and Emergency
A&E Departments assess and treat people with serious injuries and those in need of emergency treatment. If you are injured or think you are seriously ill, you can go to A&E by yourself or get a member of your family or a friend to accompany you. The 24 hour A&E Department is in Withybush Hospital and can be contacted on telephone number 01437 764545.
Something Extra Here In Wales
NHS Direct Wales can give personalised health advice 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This can include helping you to decide how serious your problem is. They have direct access to your medical records. The telephone number for NHS Direct Wales is 0845 46 47.
Dental Emergencies
If you are suffering from a dental emergency, an appointment for urgent treatment can be obtained through the Health Board’s Out-Of-Hours Emergency Dental Service. To access the service call 0845 46 47.
Pet Emergencies
For pet emergencies, Kingston Veterinary Group in Pembroke Main Sreet can be reached on 01646 622943. Their address is 85 Main Street, Pembroke, SA71 4DY.