Think ABC before going to A&E – NHSGGC issues appeal to public following surge in hospital attendances
People are being reminded to think ABC before calling visiting A&E this weekend, as hospitals across NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde are seeing a surge in attendances and increased pressures on beds.
NHSGGC is urging people to remember three simple suggestions – in fact, they’re as easy as ABC – to help you to know where to go if you need care, as well as doing your bit to ease the pressure on services.
Accessing the right care is as easy as ABC:
Ask yourself: Do I need to go out? For information on keeping yourself well and treating minor illnesses and injuries from home, go to NHS Inform or download the NHS24 app.
NHS Inform and the NHS24 app giving advice and information on countless illnesses and conditions, tests and treatments, vaccinations, self-care and much more.
They offer symptom checkers, self-help guides and directories of services available throughout the country, and should be the first port of call for anyone looking for information on a minor illness or injury, from the comfort of their own home.
 NHS Scotland Photo Library. Abbey Chemist, Paisley. Roar – Connections For Life. Picture by John Young /www.youngmedia.co.uk
Be aware: There is help right on your doorstep. Your local GP, pharmacy, dentist or optician offer a range of services.
Most GP surgeries offer so much more than an appointment with a doctor. A simple phone call can give you access to services including virtual consultations, physiotherapy, health screening and vaccinations, and mental health support.
Pharmacists are trained to offer help and advice for many illnesses and conditions, and you’ll also be able to use their extensive prescribing services – which means access to healthcare, without an appointment and while you wait.
Along with other community-based services such as opticians and dentists, which can offer expert help with a range of eye-related and oral conditions respectively, it always pays to familiarise yourself with the care available right on your doorstep.
- At the weekend, these services may not be available. If that is the case, and you feel you cannot wait, call NHS24 on 111 and they will be able to get you the help you need.
Call 111: If it’s urgent, or you’re not sure, call NHS24 on 111. They’ll make sure you get the help you need.
NHS24 is the national helpline that allows you to access a range of services. If you think a condition or injury is urgent, or if you’re not sure where to go and need advice, all you have to do is call 111.
There you will be given access to NHSGGC’s Virtual A&E, or Flow Navigation Centre, where trained clinicians will talk you through your condition and make sure you get the help you need.
Unless it’s an emergency, think A,B,C before going to A&E.
Please remember – if you think your condition or injury is very urgent or life-threatening, you should call 999 or go to A&E immediately.
For more information on the best ways to access care, go to the NHSGGC website |
