Think before going to A&E

NHS bosses at the Vale of York Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) are advising people of where to seek help at a traditionally busy time of year as GP surgeries close over the bank holiday weekend.

Dr Andrew Phillips, a local GP and medical director at the CCG, said: “A&E departments are often seen as the first place to go, when in fact there are other NHS services that may be more suitable, such as your local pharmacy or an urgent care centre.

“If you need medical help fast but it’s not an emergency, call NHS 111 which will quickly direct you to the right service. It also ensures that the 999 number and emergency departments are kept free for very serious emergency medical cases.

“Pharmacists can help with a range of common conditions and minor injuries, and many are open over the Easter break. Having home remedies to hand is very useful for minor illnesses and injuries, so ensure that your medicine cabinet is stocked up with these.”

The CCG said examples of items to have at home include pain relief, such as paracetamol and ibuprofen, as well as anti-diarrhoea medicine.

Your pharmacist can also recommend rehydration drinks.

Other medications and equipment which are useful to have at home include sore throat remedies, cough remedies, plasters and bandages, a thermometer, antihistamines and antiseptic cream.

While Easter is a typically busy time, York Hospital is not expected to be as inundated as it was over the Christmas period, when extra beds had to be opened to cope with demand.

Dr Phillips added: “Our local NHS services are precious, please make sure that you get the right care, first time.”

- Information about treating common conditions is available on the NHS Choices website at www.nhs.uk.

- Advice for help in a mental health crisis is available at:

http://www.valeofyorkccg.nhs.uk/mental-health-and-learning-disabilities-services/out-of-hours-support-and-guidance-in-a-mental-health-crisis/