The government has announced that patients will now be able to dial 111 for non-emergency healthcare. Staff trained to handle the job would review the calls made and do the needful.

111 would be accessible for 24 hours a day, seven days a week and will be for situations that are not emergency situations.

The free number will begin from next year and will run alongside NHS Direct initially.

Critics however said that this number would confuse people rather than helping them.

"Moving to a single number is the right direction because patients are not clear where to call for non-emergencies. Feedback will be needed for a clearer picture," Katherine Murphy, director of the Patients Association, said.

Health minister Mike O'Brien said, "People told us that they needed easy advice for finding healthcare quickly when it's less urgent than 999 and I am delighted that Ofcom has allocated 111 for these purposes.”

Nick Chapman, Chief Executive of NHS Direct said, “NHS Direct is keen to work with local NHS organisations to direct the new number. We believe that it will increase the access that patients have to the information and advice they need to help themselves and make best use of the NHS.”

Ambulance Service Network chair Heather Strawbridge added, “111 would ensure a much better system of healthcare which further guarantees patients get the right services, in the right place, at the right time.