‘Choose the right service this summer’: New video to help ease the pressures on Cornwall’s NHS
From visiting our breathtaking clifftop theatre and famous biomes to spending the day on one of our beautiful beaches, summer in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly has something for everyone. This summer, we want to make sure everyone who might need our NHS gets the right care at the right time.
We have released a new film that features some of our iconic landmarks and beauty spots to help people choose the best service for their needs. The message from clinicians and patients is simple: Choose Well this summer! Whether it be self-care for sunburn, a friendly local pharmacist for allergy advice, your own GP for ongoing symptoms or one of our hospitals for something more serious, please share our video to #HelpUsHelpYou and make sure we can prioritise urgent care for those who need it most.
Self-care is key! A well-stocked first-aid kit or medicine cabinet could help you avoid a trip to the pharmacist, GP, a minor injury unit or hospital. Useful items to have included, paracetamol and aspirin, re-hydration remedies, antiseptic cream, antihistamines and sunscreen.
If you think you need medical help, please ‘Choose Well’.
Six steps to Help Us Help You
- Visit your local pharmacy for help with allergies, insect bites, stings and emergency contraception. Pharmacists can also provide an emergency prescription when your GP is closed, even if you are on holiday. Check your nearest open pharmacy. Many urgent medications can now be ordered online for collection at a local pharmacy, by visiting NHS 111 online
- Your own GP is your best point of contact for ongoing symptoms, even if you are on holiday. Your surgery can send a prescription to any pharmacy you choose, for you to collect close to where you are staying. For advice on GP services, visit the NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly website
- Minor injury units can help with conditions like broken bones and cuts that need stitches, but your nearest one might not be the quickest option. Check live opening and waiting times
- If you need urgent care advice, visit NHS 111 online or call 111. Expert clinicians can direct you to the best service for your needs
- If you are worried about your own or someone else’s mental health, Cornwall’s 24/7 mental health helpline can help. Call free on 0800 038 5300. For more mental health support services, visit the NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly website
- Only call 999 or visit the emergency department if your illness or injury is life-threatening. This includes chest pain, trouble breathing, severe bleeding, stroke and loss of consciousness
Emergency Department Consultant, Dr Mark Jadav, explains why choosing the right service at the right time is crucial:
Discharge from hospital
NHS trusts are asking families, friends, and neighbours to work with staff to get patients home from hospital when they are fit for discharge. If you have a loved one in hospital, please be ready to help them home as soon as they are well enough.
Fast access one-off grants are also still available. If you can support someone in your home, or in their own home, with a little extra help, please contact the ward directly.
Useful links
Follow NHS Cornwall on Facebook and Twitter for news, updates and advice.