MSP's call to help ease the burden on NHS this winter
Ms Whitham has reminded people across Ayrshire about the different health services available to them including NHS Inform self-help guides, local pharmacies, NHS 24, GPs, and A&E.
Elena Whitham MSP has called on her constituents to help ease pressure on the NHS this winter by seeking “the right care in the right place.”
Ms Whitham has reminded people across Ayrshire about the different health services available to them including NHS Inform self-help guides, local pharmacies, NHS 24, GPs, and A&E.
The call comes as the NHS powers through the busy winter season by working to the Scottish Government’s winter preparedness plan which was published earlier this year.
Commenting, SNP MSP for Carrick, Cumnock, and Doon Valley, Elena Whitham, said: “We know the winter and festive season puts extra pressure on our NHS. Sickness and accidents often mean our A&E departments see a sharp uptake in patients.
“I am pleased that the Scottish Government recognises these pressures and published its Winter Preparedness Plan earlier this year. This plan takes a whole system approach to responding to a surge in demand for health and social care services and sets out steps that can be taken to relieve pressure.
“While the Government and NHS work to the plan, it is important to remember that we can all play our part in helping the NHS this winter. By seeking the right care in the right place, we can ensure that A&E departments are not pushed to breaking point.”
She continued: “Please take time to familiarise yourself with the different services and contacts that are available to you this winter and reach out to those that are most appropriate for your needs.
“As always, if you find yourself needing emergency medical treatment call 999 or go to A&E straight away. If it is not an emergency, you may wish to read self-help guides on the NHS Inform website which will give you an idea of what you can do to alleviate your symptoms.
“You can also speak to your local pharmacist who is trained to give advice and can prescribe some medications without needing to see your GP. They will direct you to your GP if need be.
“NHS 24 is also available by calling 111 and will be able to help you with non-emergencies.
“If we all play our part, we can ensure that the NHS works effectively this winter.”
