Press release
Choose well and be prepared this winter
Local people are being reminded to stock up their cupboards with over the counter medicines ready for the winter and holiday period. Patients who require repeat prescriptions are also asked to think ahead and get hold of the required amount before General Practices close for Christmas.
Traditionally winter months see an increase in coughs, colds and flu like symptoms, which can all be alleviated with over the counter remedies, available from local pharmacies. The message, from NHS Bury, comes as part of the ongoing campaign to make sure that emergency health services are available for the poorliest of patients. Figures suggest that around a third of visits to A&E at Fairfield General Hospital in Bury could be treated more quickly and more appropriately by another NHS service. Patients are urged to consider the full range of NHS services available to them by visiting www.bury.nhs.uk
“Many common complaints, such as back-ache, minor sports injuries, stomach upsets, coughs and colds, flu and sore-throats can be treated by having a well stocked medicine cabinet.” Said Dr. Peter Elton, NHS Bury’s Director of Public Health. “Just having a few basic essentials at home can help to treat the symptoms of many common illnesses and injuries. Alternatively advice can be sought from NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 or by visiting the Bury Urgent Treatment Centre based at Moorgate Primary Care Centre near the Rock Development, where no appointment is required to see a doctor quickly."
By choosing and using the right services, patients can expect to be seen or treated more quickly, whilst keeping emergency services free for those patients who need them most. Choosing the right service also helps to make sure that the limited NHS resources available to Bury are being spent wisely.
The Care about the cost campaign is aimed at encouraging local people to choose the right NHS service for them. The campaign has seen the launch of a range of billboards, banners and bus advertising, flyers and road shows.
There’s a range of NHS services on your doorstep:
- Self care – treat very minor illnesses, ailments and injuries at home.
- NHS Choices – online advice and information www.nhs.uk
- NHS Direct – 24/7 advice and information call 0845 46 47.
- Pharmacy – expert advice and treatment for a range of common health problems.
- GP – make your GP practice your first port of call for advice, guidance and treatment.
- Bury Urgent Treatment Centre – if you need treating today, this doctor-led service is open every day from 8am to 10pm, no appointment needed. First floor Moorgate Primary Care Centre, 22 Derby Way, Bury, BL9 0NJ.
- Prestwich Walk-in Centre – nurse-led service, no appointment needed, Fairfax Road, Prestwich. Open early until late every day.
- A&E/999 – A&E departments and the 999 ambulance service should only be used in a critical or life-threatening situation.
ENDS
Date: 10 December 2010
FOR PRESS & MEDIA ENQUIRIES: contact Caroline Dearden, Corporate Communications Manager on 0161 762 3106 or email communications@bury.nhs.uk