NHS Cornwall encourage people to use services wisely this Easter
They warn they've seen a rise in demand since the school holidays begun
The NHS in Cornwall have shared an urgent message ahead of Easter to ease pressure on our emergency services.
People across Cornwall are being encouraged to use Pharmacy First.
Susan Bracefield, Chief Nursing Officer for NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Integrated Care Board said:
"We know that Easter is a busy time in our county, and we want people to know where they can seek help if they are poorly and if they need emergency care."
NHS Cornwall warns they've seen a rise of demand since the holidays started.
The NHS is keen to raise awareness of the range of services that suit different needs. If people can make the right choice about ‘where is best’ then this will play a major part in keeping emergency services available to help the people who need them the most.
With this in mind, NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly has published information to help people know the difference between an MIU, UTC and the emergency department.
Susan added: "If you’re feeling under the weather more than 90 local pharmacies can help, from forgotten medications, through contraception, to the Pharmacy First service that can help with a range of conditions from childhood earaches to insect bites.
"And your own GP can help, even if you are on holiday here – still give them a call. If you get unwell over the bank holidays or overnight, don’t forget NHS 111 can help.
"We also have our minor injury units (MIU) for a range of minor illnesses and injuries, most with x-ray services, and our urgent treatment centre (UTC) at West Cornwall Hospital, Penzance, open evenings and weekends. You can check online to see live wait and opening times – as your nearest may not be your quickest.
"But if your condition is life- or limb-threatening, always call 999.
"We wish everyone a safe and enjoyable Easter and thank you for helping to keep our hospitals for the people who need them the most."
Susan has some vital tips for people on the Isles of Scilly, or those on holiday.
She said: "First aid kits are always helpful to have. If you’re on medications, make sure you’ve got plenty to get you through the holidays. We are able to get your own GP to dispense to our chemists, but to save any wait or missed dose, make sure you’ve got all of your medications with you.”
If you're looking for support this Easter, you can visit:
Pharmacy.
Most pharmacies in Cornwall offer the Pharmacy First service for 7 common conditions without seeing a GP. They are a great first port of call for treatment and advice, and can also provide an emergency supply of most prescription medicines. Remember to think pharmacy first.
NHS 111.
Unsure of what service you need, or your GP surgery is closed? Use NHS 111 online 24/7, or call 111. You can also access mental health support.
GP.
Call your own GP surgery for health advice, even if you are on holiday. They are used to helping by phone, video and email. Did you know?... your surgery can send a prescription to any pharmacy you choose, for you to collect close to where you are staying.
Minor injury units and urgent treatment centre.
Use one of our 10 minor injury units and the urgent treatment centre for accidents and non-life-threatening emergencies. Most are open in the evenings and at weekends. There’s no need for an appointment, but please check opening hours and live wait times before you visit, as your nearest won’t always be the quickest.
There are MIUs at Falmouth, Helston, Camborne Redruth, St Austell, Newquay, Bodmin, Liskeard, Launceston, Stratton, and St Mary’s on the Isles of Scilly. The UTC is at West Cornwall Hospital in Penzance (usually open until midnight).
999 and the Emergency Department.
Please only call 999 or visit the emergency department at Royal Cornwall Hospital, Treliske or at Derriford Hospital, Plymouth if it is a genuine emergency that is life- or limb-threatening.