South West NHS calling for public support over Christmas period
Hospital's are likely to be busy this week
While there may not be any industrial action being taken this week in the NHS, we're still being asked to help reduce hospital staff are facing.
The Christmas and New Year period is a very busy time for the NHS as demand for urgent and emergency care is much higher than usual.
And with a week of strike action sandwiching the festive period, it's likely that hospitals will remain busy into January.
The Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire NHS Integrated Care Board have issued some guidance to ease pressure on critical services.
Dr Amanda Webb, Chief Medical Officer of the BSW ICB said they've planned 'meticulously' but still need the public's support.
“By choosing the right healthcare option, such as NHS 111, or by carefully treating a minor illness at home, people will be helping to keep our urgent and emergency care services free for anyone unfortunate enough to be caught in a life-threatening situation.
“These simple steps, along with a level-headed approach to enjoying the festive season, will go a long way at this busy time of year, and really make a difference to the hundreds of NHS staff working over Christmas and New Year.”
We're encouraged by local GP Dr Elizabeth Hersch to make sure that our medicine supply's at home are well-stocked and to use local pharmacies for minor health concerns, with pharmacies open for extended hours during the festive season.
And by ensuring our loved ones in hospitals are helped on their journey's home, by providing a lift or getting medicine or shopping for them, we can further ensure that pressure in local hospitals is eased.