Think before you go to A&E
With healthcare services particularly busy at this time of year, we are reminding people about the alternatives to visiting A&E. The aim is to avoid people going to Accident & Emergency when they are not experiencing a genuine life-threatening emergency with the local population receiving the right care in the right place. The alternative services available other than A&E include:
1.) NHS111 service: Call NHS 111 if you urgently need medical help or advice but it's not a life-threatening situation.
2.) Call 999: Call 999 if someone is seriously ill or injured and their life is at risk
3.) Ask your pharmacist: Your pharmacist can give you advice for many common minor illnesses, such as cold and coughs.
4.) See your GP: Make an appointment with your GP if you are feeling unwell and it is not an emergency.
5.) Walk-in centres and minor injury units: These can provide help for inr injuries and suspected broken bones, click here to find your nearest centre.
Healthcare services are extremely stretched at this time of year so Consultant Physician Martin Sandler explains some of the best non-urgent care options, click the image below to view the video:
NHS Choices provide a details overview of each service available, to view their website click here.
