01/05/2013 - Permalink

Use your NHS wisely this weekend

Related topics: Community / Health / Partner organisations

News from our partners Shropshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), and Telford and Wrekin CCG.

The Bank Holiday weekend is nearly here, and for many people this means a long weekend with friends and family, but for the NHS it can often mean an increase in demand. 

Whether you are doing DIY, having a barbeque or enjoying a drink with friends, the local Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) are encouraging patients to have fun but be safe. Remember to use NHS services wisely, to help treat those who most need urgent treatment.  The local NHS is reminding people to think carefully before dialling 999 or visiting A&E this weekend. 

People often turn up at hospitals with minor illnesses and injuries that could often be treated more quickly elsewhere, or at home. 

Your local pharmacist can offer you free, qualified health advice at any time, and no appointment is necessary.  From coughs and colds to aches and pains, they can give you expert help on everyday illnesses and answer questions about prescribed and over the counter medicines. 

If you need urgent advice over the Bank Holiday weekend, you have a range of options including:

  • Consult NHS Choices at www.nhs.uk to see if you can manage your illness at home
  • Speak to a pharmacist
  • Phone Shropdoc on 08444 068888 for telephone advice or a consultation with a clinician
  • Attend one of our walk-in centres
  • Attend your local minor injury unit. 

Carol McInnes, Shropshire CCG’s Head of Service Redesign and Development, said:

“We are expecting a busy weekend, and are encouraging patients to think if they really need urgent medical advice.  If they do need urgent treatment there are a range of options available, including GP out of hours advice through Shropdoc, pharmacies, walk in centres and the minor injury units in Shropshire.  We are also reminding patients that Shropdoc should not be used for repeat prescriptions.” 

Dr Mike Innes, Chair of Telford and Wrekin CCG, said:

“To help us manage demand this weekend, we ask patients to think before going to A&E or dialling 999.  Please remember A&E and 999 should only be used for emergencies or serious illnesses and injuries.

“Pharmacies can offer advice on minor illnesses including colds and flu, and emergency contraception.  Be prepared this weekend, and know where your nearest open pharmacy is.”

For details of Pharmacy opening times and out of hours services, visit: www.shropshire.nhs.uk/ccg  or www.telford.nhs.uk/ccg.  

You can find a symptom checker and information about local NHS services at www.nhs.uk.