Fresh ‘Choose Well’ plea ahead of busiest bank holiday of the year
Cornwall’s NHS is still urging people to ‘Choose Well’ this summer, as our health and care services brace for the busiest bank holiday of the year.
From self-care for sunburn to one of our hospitals for something more serious, we are reminding residents and visitors to think carefully about which service they need and not to call 999 or turn up at the emergency department unless an illness of injury is life-threatening.
Further industrial action is likely to have an impact too, and the simple messages at the centre of our ‘Choose Well’ film still stand.
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
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.
Visit the ‘Help us help you’ page on the NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly website or follow NHS Cornwall on Facebook and Twitter for news, updates and advice.