Don’t go to A&E unless you have to

Date published: 22 December 2009

NHS Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale are asking residents not to attend Accident and Emergency departments unless they have to.

Thousands of people go to Rochdale A&E every winter but the majority could access NHS services elsewhere.

Figures show that strains and sprains is the most common reason people go to A&E, followed closely by bruising and being generally unwell and a large amount of people decide not to wait for the symptoms to get worse and go straight to A&E.

These figures increase during the winter period as cold weather, flu like symptoms and drinking too much over the festive period all take their toll on people’s health.

Mr Rip Gangahar, consultant in emergency medicine at Rochdale Infirmary, said: “Winter is always a busy time for hospital emergency departments and this year is no different.

“We see a whole range of injuries and illnesses at Rochdale, many of which would be better served at another NHS service.

“A&E should only be used in a critical or life threatening situation such as loss of consciousness, pain that cannot be relieved, extreme confusion, persistent or severe chest pain or breathing difficulties.

"We would urge people with coughs, colds and minor ailments and injuries to choose appropriate alternative local health services. There are a number of other local NHS services that people can use for minor ailments and injuries. By using the full range of healthcare services in your community you can ensure prompt treatment.”

NHS Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale is helping people to select the right NHS service through the Choose Well campaign.

Melissa Laskey, Lead for Acute Care at NHS Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale, said: “The NHS services available in the borough are designed to suit a range of different circumstances. Many people are unaware that the services provided by NHS Direct and local pharmacists often deal with common winter illnesses faster than going to the doctor, walk in-centre or A&E. By choosing well, people will be able to get a better service and help to reduce the pressure faced by our local emergency services.”

Choose Well recommends the following:

Self-care - for treatment of minor winter illnesses, by combining a well stocked medicine cabinet with plenty of rest.
NHS Direct - for absolutely any health questions, around the clock, and to find local services.
Pharmacist - for advice on common winter illnesses, and the best medicines to treat them. GP - for medical advice, examinations and prescriptions for illnesses you just can’t shake off.
NHS Walk-in Centre - for treatment of minor illnesses or injuries, without an appointment.
A&E or 999 - for critical or life-threatening situations.