3 weeks Ago
People in the North West are being urged to use NHS 111 online over the Easter bank holiday. Leaders are notifying the public that health services will be under pressure during this period, and A&E departments and the 111 phone service will be busy. The NHS 111 online service functions similarly to the phone line, providing quick advice on the best care options.
This might include a callback from a trained clinician or nurse, an A&E appointment, or general medical advice. Dr Michael Gregory, regional medical director for NHS England North West, said: "This weekend and the period after it will be another extremely busy time for our 111 health advisors and clinicians and our doctors and nurses and other health professionals working in our A&Es, with a further bank holiday weekend coming up at the start of May. "The public can help us by using the right service for their needs, including 111 online for quick and easy medical help.
"It can direct people to the right service quickly, as well as providing medical advice, and helps to keep urgent and emergency services free for the most seriously ill and injured patients." Dr Gregory also emphasised the importance of planning ahead, such as ensuring enough regularly prescribed medication and a well-stocked medicine cabinet. He added: "We are extremely grateful to the dedicated teams across the NHS in the North West who will be working tirelessly over the coming bank holiday weekends to ensure all those that need care receive it, and it is vital the public know the best way to access care during this time.
"In the event of a life or limb-threatening emergency, people should always continue to call 999 or attend A&E." Paul Johnston, ICC service delivery manager for North West Ambulance Service, said: "Over the last two years, some of the top ten reasons for people calling NHS 111 over the Easter bank holiday includes sore throats, hoarse voices and earaches. "Having a stocked medicine cabinet means you can relieve these symptoms easily.
"Despite ensuring we are staffed appropriately, waiting times on the phone can be longer for help. "You can skip the queue by using the online service and even receive a callback from a clinician if required." The NHS 111 online service can guide people on where to seek help for their symptoms, provide general health information, and assist with emergency supplies of prescribed medicine or repeat prescriptions.
It can also help with emergency dental appointments. The service is, however, not available for children under five. For urgent medical assistance for this age group, the 111 phone line should be used.
For more serious issues such as signs of a heart attack, stroke, difficulty breathing, heavy bleeding that won’t stop, seizures, or sudden and rapid swelling of the eyes, lips, throat, or tongue, dial 999 immediately. Your local pharmacist can also provide advice and treatment for a wide range of minor conditions..
