[D]octors are urging people to help the NHS by choosing the right service and reminding them that A+E is for serious and life threatening injuries and illnesses.
The NHS expects and plans for an increase in patients seeking treatment after the long Christmas bank holiday and after the spell of very cold weather we experienced in the run up to the festive period.
Helen Ray, joint executive managing director of operations at North Cumbria University Hospital Trust said: “We are asking people to think about whether waiting to be seen at A+E is right for their condition. Many people absolutely do need to be seen by our specialists, but some might be seen quicker and just as effectively through our minor injuries units or by speaking to their local pharmacist.
“We need to make sure that our teams are available and ready for those who may need life-saving interventions.”
There are Minor Injuries Units which can treat conditions including cuts, sprains, bites, infected wounds and other minor injuries and ailments.
- Penrith Hospital – 24 hours
- Keswick Hospital – 0830-1900
Workington Hospital Access Centre:
- Fri 29 Dec 8am-8pm
- Sat 30 Dec 10am-4pm
- New Years Eve 10am-4pm
- New Years Day CLOSED
- Tues 2 Jan 8am-8pm
Pharmacies are open as usual today and are able to provide advice about many ailments. You can buy over the counter remedies to ease the symptoms of coughs, colds and viruses. NHS 111 can provide medical advice over the phone if it isn’t an emergency.
They have also seen an increase of norovirus and flu-like symptoms over the Christmas holiday period. A reminder if you are experiencing flu like symptoms or norovirus your best treatment options are through CHOC or NHS 111.
