How we can help the NHS during busy summer period

Industrial action and summer holidays will put pressure on the NHS

Author: Aaron HarperPublished 24th Jul 2023

As the summer holidays are now upon us, the NHS is calling for people in the South West to consider how they use health services during one of their busiest periods.

And with industrial action ongoing, pressure on the service level the NHS can provide is set to increase, making it even more important that we choose the right health and care service.

Dr Michael Marsh, Medical Director for NHS England – South West says they do plan for the busy summer period but the industrial action is going to cause problems.

“There are a number of things people can do to help support the NHS this summer, whether you’re a resident or a visitor,” Dr Marsh said.

NHS app provides range of services

So, how can we help? Well, a number of ‘top tips’ have been provided.

First of all, those of us on regular prescribed should ensure that we are in plentiful supply. And this is where the NHS app offers it’s help to us.

The app allows us to easily order repeat prescriptions, although this can also be done through your GP practice website.

“The app has a range of services from ordering repeat prescriptions and finding NHS services near you such as urgent care services and pharmacies,” Dr Marsh said.

Additionally, we should be making sure our home first aid kit is fully stocked too, while we need to check ahead of time which local pharmacies are open on bank holidays.

What to do if unsure of which NHS service to use

While the app will be helpful, there will be questions it cannot answer.

If we find ourselves ill or injured, but it’s not life-threatening, we should call 111 or visit 111.nhs.uk for help.

The website can help you find where to get help for your symptoms, where to get emergency supplies of medicine or emergency dental appointments.

999 should be called in an emergency for signs of a heart attack or stroke, seizures or difficulty breathing.

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