Jubilee bank holiday weekend beckons, so make sure you know the best places to go if you need healthcare advice.
There’s lots of choice if you or a loved one feels unwell or suffers a minor injury over the four day break – and choosing well means you’ll be able to get back to enjoying the time off as soon as possible.
Dr Stuart Ward, medical director for the Southampton, Hampshire, Isle of Wight and Portsmouth PCT Cluster, said: “With a four day weekend coming up, no one wants to spent time feeling ill, or sat in a hospital waiting room when you could get quicker, and more appropriate, treatment elsewhere.”
The emergency department – A&E – is for genuine medical emergencies only, such as severe blood loss, chest pains, loss of consciousness, breathing difficulties and major fractures.
Many people who attend the emergency department should instead go to a minor injuries unit, all of which can help with issues such as cuts, sprains, strains, stomach upsets, minor fractures and emergency contraception.
Your local pharmacist is a fantastic source of healthcare advice on a range of topics including minor infections, headaches and emergency contraception. Most have a private consultation room so you can discuss requirements in privacy.
NHS Direct – 0845 4647 – is available 24 hours a day to help you with any queries you have, and can advise on the best course of action for your symptoms. If you live on the Isle of Wight dial 111 for healthcare advice.
And if the weather stays warm as it has been over the past few days, please take some precautions before venturing into the sun.
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Use at least factor 15 sun cream/lotion/spray – check the use by date and replace it when necessary as it will be less effective when old.
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Cover up with lightweight clothing, a hat and sunglasses
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Avoid direct sunlight between 11am and 3pm
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Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
For details of local healthcare options, visit the following websites for which service to use and when:
NHS Southampton City -www.southamptonhealth.nhs.uk/treatment/
NHS Hampshire – www.hampshire.nhs.uk/local-services/choose-well
NHS Isle of Wight – www.iow.nhs.uk/choosewell
NHS Portsmouth – www.portsmouth.nhs.uk/Your-Health/Choosewell
Dr Ward added: “Finally, don’t underestimate the benefit of a well-stocked first aid kit at home. Painkillers, antiseptic cream, plasters and a few other well-chosen items could be all you need to enjoy the Jubilee weekend to the full. Your pharmacist can advise on the best items to keep at home.”
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