RESIDENTS in South Gloucestershire are being urged to check their options for emergency healthcare treatment and advice ahead of this bank holiday weekend.
Health service leaders are asking members of the public to “do their bit” to manage the increased demand during this busy weekend by using A&E for serious and life-threatening injuries and conditions only.
South Gloucestershire CCG deputy clinical chairman Dr Ann Sephton said: “If you need medical help or advice over the bank holiday, but it’s not an emergency, remember that there’s a wide range of alternatives to A&E that can be accessed quickly and easily.
“For example, minor injuries units and walk-in centres are available in Bristol and Yate and can provide on-the-spot treatment of minor injuries such as sprains, strains and cuts without needing a trip to A&E.
“Similarly, if you urgently need to see a doctor but it won’t wait until after the weekend, there’s a GP out-of hours service which can be accessed through the NHS 111 telephone line.
“Emergency pharmacists are also available offering expert advice and help with everything from minor ailments to emergency contraception.”
She added: “By choosing well, you’ll make sure you get the best service for your needs, while helping to reduce pressure on our busy emergency departments.”
Details of all services are available by dialling 111 or visiting www.southgloucestershireccg.nhs.uk/choosewell
A free NHS South Gloucestershire ‘service finder’ smartphone app, providing on-the-go help in locating local health services, is also available to download for Apple and Android devices.
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