Docs urge fans to play it safe
GEELONG doctors and staff are urging fans to play it safe this AFL Grand Final weekend to avoid a hospital trip to emergency as the Cats clash with the Tigers.
Epworth Geelong said it recorded a 45 per cent increase in presentations to the emergency department — and an increase in sprains and strains — on grand final day in 2019, compared with the grand final eve public holiday.
Acting executive general manager Leonie Lloyd — who is also a Richmond supporter — urged people to be sensible when playing outdoor sports this weekend.
“With local football and other sport out of bounds this year, people may not be as match-fit as they normally are for a game of kick-to-kick with friends on grand final day,” Ms Lloyd said.
“The lack of sport and limitations on exercise this year could increase the chances of being injured.”
On grand final eve 2019, sprains and strains made up 20 per cent of Epworth emergency admissions patients, but accounted for almost a third of patients on grand final day.
Barwon Health, which runs the city’s main emergency department at Geelong hospital, said it did not expect to see more presentations on grand final day.
Emergency department senior consultant Michael Ragg said grand final weekends had not traditionally resulted in significantly more people seeking emergency treatment at the hospital.
“Our emergency department does not anticipate an increase in people seeking treatment this weekend, especially with a night game and COVID-19 restrictions that limit social gathering,” Dr Ragg said.
But he urged residents to limit their consumption of alcohol to a safe amount at the weekend.
“Whether the Cats win or lose this weekend, we ask the community to celebrate the occasion responsibly if they are going to be consuming alcohol,” Dr Ragg said.
“And please continue following the DHHS guidelines that limit social gatherings.”
Barwon Health North in Norlane is open for nonemergency treatment, including X-rays and medical imaging.