Please use Wiltshire's NHS services wisely this Easter, say health bosses

They've put out some advice ahead of the Bank Holidays

Author: Faye TryhornPublished 6th Apr 2023

The long Easter weekend, coupled with four days of planned industrial action by junior doctors immediately afterwards, has prompted an urgent call to the public to support their NHS in the region that includes Wiltshire.

Urgent and emergency NHS services are expected to be extremely busy over the Bank Holidays, as many GP practices, pharmacies and other non-urgent services traditionally close or amend their hours.

We're being asked to 'play our part' in helping to reduce unnecessary demand by using services only when the need is genuine, and by knowing what other help is available, such as 111 online and community pharmacies.

Dr Amanda Webb, Chief Medical Officer, Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board, said:

“The actions of the public, even those which may seem small, can collectively make a big difference to the NHS during these periods of high demand and intense pressure.

“The support we’re calling for will help our already-stretched frontline teams to continue to provide essential care and treatment for those most in need before, during and after Easter.”

A video with some advice has been released, featuring Wiltshire's Chief Nurse, Gill May:

Supporting loved-ones to leave hospital when they are well enough to go home or to their place of care is another way in which people can help others to get the care they need.

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