Health chiefs renew call for help

Hospital bosses in Sunderland are still appealing for people to use NHS services wisely.

The peak Christmas and NewYeartimemayhavepassed but emergency departments and the ambulance service continue to report unprecedented demand across the region.

Winter always means additional pressure across all parts of the health service due to common seasonal illnesses circulating in the community. Hospitals also see an increase inemergencyadmissionsfrom those who are more vulnerable and at risk of becoming seriously unwell during the cold winter months.

This includes people with breathing or heart problems, older people and those suffering from other long- term health conditions.

South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust’s Medical Director Dr Shaz Wahid said: “The winter months are particularly challengingfortheNHS,especially foroururgentcareservices.Patientsnotrequiringemergency treatmentcanexpectverylong waitsinouremergencydepartments at South Tyneside District Hospital and Sunderland Royal Hospital as our frontline teamsprioritisetreatingthose with the most urgent medical needs.

“We are urging everyone to thinkaboutalternativestohospital or ambulance.”

People who do not need emergency care are advised to use NHS 111, which is available 24/7 for urgent medical advice – either by calling or going online at www.111.nhs.uk

Many GP surgeries offer extended opening hours and additional appointments. Visit http://www.urgentoremergency.co.uk/gp-opening-times