Rachel Eastham in A&E.jpgThe festive season is upon us, providing a much-needed break for many and the chance to catch up with friends and family.

Unfortunately, this time of year can also see a huge increase in people coming to hospital Accident & Emergency departments, often with minor ailments that could be easily treated elsewhere.

North Cumbria Integrated Care Foundation Trust is today issuing an appeal for the local community to help prioritise services for people who are critically ill or injured by choosing the right service for their needs.

The Trust is reminding everyone that www.111.nhs.uk, community pharmacies and GPs are better placed to offer advice on minor conditions such as stomach upsets and headaches.

Rachel Eastham, Matron in A&E at NCIC, said: “We’re asking local people to make their health part of their festive preparations – collecting their prescription medicines as needed, as well as understanding what services are available should they, or a family member, become ill or injured.

“Please remember to only use the Emergency Department when it’s just that – an emergency. Patients who attend A&E with non-emergency conditions are likely to face a long wait for treatment while we care for the people who need us the most.

“However, if you do feel ill during this time, you can still seek advice by visiting NHS 111 online or, if it’s really urgent, calling 999.”

If you need advice for an everyday illness or injury, please either contact your local pharmacy for help or look at the self-care advice that’s available online from the NHS at www.nhs.uk.

You can also check your symptoms, using the online symptom checker available at www.111.nhs.uk, which will re-direct you to a health professional if you need to be seen by someone. If your symptoms persist and you are not getting better, please contact your GP practice for advice.

Here are some tips to help you choose health services wisely:

  • Self-care – A lot of illnesses or symptoms can be treated in your home by using a well-stocked medicine cabinet and by getting plenty of rest.
  • NHS 111 – This 24 hour, seven day service offers confidential health advice and information over the phone and online.
  • Pharmacist (chemist) – Your local pharmacist is a highly trained healthcare professional who can give you advice on common illnesses and the medicines you need to treat them.
  • GP – Your own doctor is the best person to speak to about persistent health problems and illnesses that won’t go away. These include coughs, joint pain and long term symptoms.
  • Emergency Department or 999 – Hospital emergency departments provide immediate emergency care for people who show the symptoms of serious illness or are badly injured. If you call 999 for an ambulance the telephone advisor will arrange appropriate assistance for the patient based on information about the illness or injury.