Help Him Make the Right Call – NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde launches men’s health campaign
Tens of thousands of men are going to A&E unnecessarily because they don’t know where to get help or are putting it off until it is urgent, new figures have revealed.
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde has recently launched its ABC Winter Campaign, to give people the information they need to access care in the most appropriate way, and with recent research by NHSGGC showing that men are more likely to ignore their health needs in the early stages, part of that campaign will be a special focus on men’s health.
The NHSGGC figures show that men are nearly 25% more likely than women to attend A&E as their first port of call, and the new campaign aims to educate and encourage men to recognise the importance of accessing the right care at the right place at the right time.
“Help Him Make the Right Call” highlights the need for men to reach out for care as soon as they require medical help.
By accessing care at the earliest opportunity, men can avoid unnecessary emergencies when their health has declined and ensure timely intervention, while also reducing pressure on A&E departments.
NHSGGC offers a range of primary care and specialised services that can help prevent negative health outcomes.
Community pharmacies provide free advice and treatment for a wide variety of issues with over the counter and other medications. Dental practices provide all aspects of mouth and dental care and community optometrists deal with all eye conditions.
GP practices offer a range of services delivered by a variety of health professionals, and many practices offer flexible access including telephone and video appointments meaning attending the surgery may not be required.
Dr Kerri Neylon, Deputy Medical Director for Primary Care at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, said: “It is vital that men look after themselves and access the most appropriate health services at the earliest opportunity.
“The Help Him Make the Right Call campaign focuses on the need for men to access care before it becomes a bigger issue.
“The data has indicated that men regularly leave their health until it becomes an emergency and that is what we want to avoid.
“Looking after your health is the most important thing you can do, and our primary care services are there to ensure you get the care you require to avoid a journey to accident and emergency.
“By encouraging men to prioritise their health and wellbeing through early access to care, we can have a positive impact on our communities while leaving the emergency care to those who need it most.”
Dr Scott Davidson, Deputy Medical Director for Acute Services at NHSGGC, added: “Our emergency departments are under increasing pressure, especially during the winter months, and this campaign helps to highlight how important it is for men to access the right care at the first opportunity.
“Reaching out to primary care services is essential to ensure you look after your health while also avoiding any serious or life-threatening emergencies.
“However, we would always encourage anyone who has a serious or life-threatening condition, such as a stroke or a heart attack, to call 999.”
For more information on the best ways to access care, click here |
