Press release
Choose well and be prepared this winter
Local people are being urged to make the most of the full range of NHS services to help them stay healthy this winter.
The winter months always see an increased demand on local services including GP services and Accident & Emergency (A&E). A&E departments should only be used in a critical or life-threatening situation and there are other alternatives for advice and treatment, often without an appointment.
- A range of common winter illnesses and minor injuries can often be treated at home simply by combining a well-stocked medicine cabinet with plenty of rest.
- NHS Direct and NHS Choices offer information on all aspects of health care. Online (www.nhs.uk) you can check your symptoms and find telephone numbers and addresses for most local health services. Patients can also call NHS Direct (0845 46 47) for confidential health advice and information around the clock.
- Local community pharmacies can provide advice on common winter illnesses and the best medicines to treat them. Find out which pharmacies are open over the holiday period by visiting www.nhs.uk or calling NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.
- At NHS Walk-in Centres you don’t need an appointment and will be seen by an experienced nurse. Walk-in Centres are located in Bury (Moorgate Primary Care Centre, Derby Way, Bury) and Prestwich (Fairfax Road). Both are open from 7am until 10pm Monday to Friday, and 9am until 10pm Saturday, Sunday and bank holidays.
Dr. Peter Elton, Director of Public Health for NHS Bury said; "If you need help because you have injured yourself but the injury isn’t serious, you will usually be seen quicker at a Walk-in centre. If you have a medical problem, you can get advice quicker by ringing NHS Direct. This will not only help you to get the quickest service, but will also free the Accident and Emergency Department to deal with the most critically ill and injured patients."
There is a lot patients can do in terms of self care to get them ready and prepared for the winter period, such as having a well stocked medicines cabinet; ensuring they have enough repeat prescription medication for the holiday period, and if eligible, having the seasonal and/or swine flu vaccination.
ENDS
Date: 9th December 2009
For press & media enquiries: contact Caroline Dearden, Corporate Communications Manager on 0161 762 3106 or email communications@bury.nhs.uk