Cornwall's NHS asks people to help over the bank holiday as they face 'significant pressure'
They urge us to choose health and care services wisely
Last updated 9th Apr 2023
Cornwall's NHS is urging people to continue to help as they face 'significant pressure' over the Easter holidays.
People in Cornwall are being urged to choose health and care services wisely, as the NHS prepares for a busy Easter bank holiday.
It is also calling for support with more industrial action taking place early next week.
Some junior doctors are expected to take part in strike action for four days, including those in Cornwall. This is expected to last from 7am on Tuesday 11 April until 7am on Saturday 15 April.
Kate Shields, Chief Exec of NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Integrated Care System, said:
"Cornwall’s NHS is facing significant pressure, and we're asking for your help ahead of the busy long bank holiday weekend and 4 days of strike action by junior doctors.
“Our staff are working incredibly hard to make sure our patients receive the best care possible, but it's more important than ever that people choose services appropriately to ensure care is available to those who need it most.
“This includes using 111 online as the first port of call for health needs, and only using 999 if it is a life-threatening emergency”.
NHS trusts are warning it is vital that patients who need urgent medical care continue to come forward as normal, especially in emergency and life-threatening situations.
• NHS 111: Visit NHS 111 online or call 111 for advice and support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
• GP: Please call your own GP for symptoms that will not go away, even when you are on holiday
• Minor injury unit: Attend your local minor injury unit for conditions and injuries that are not life-threatening, such as sprains, fractures and burns. Check opening hours and waiting times
• Cornwall's 24/7 mental health helpline: Call 0800 038 5300 if you are worried about your own or someone else's mental health
They are asking families, friends, and neighbours to work with staff to get patients home from hospital when they are fit for discharge.
More information can be found on the NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly website, under ‘Help Us Help You’.