Evening Telegraph (First Edition)
Don’t use A&E departments as substitute for GP
NHS Tayside is asking people to save accident and emergency departments for real emergencies only and make sure they know where to get the right treatment, at the right place, at the right time, during the festive period.
A spokesowoman said: “Over holiday periods, when GP surgeries are closed, A&E departments see a significant increase in attendances, some of which could be dealt with elsewhere.
“Around one in three people who visit A&E could receive treatment more appropriately by accessing a different service. This can put extra pressure on staff when they may be needed for a real emergency.
“Over the Christmas and New Year period, GP surgeries will be closed on 24, 25, 26 and 27 of December and 31 December, 1, 2 and 3 of January 2017.
“During this time, there are alternative places to get help, should you need it.
“When your GP surgery is closed, or you need advice on self care, please call NHS 24 on 111.
“If you need to be seen, either a home visit will be arranged or you will be directed to your nearest Primary Care Emergency Centre or nurse-led Minor Injury and Illness Unit.
“Additionally, some pharmacies will be open over the festive period, details of which can be found on the NHS Tayside website nhstayside.scot.nhs.uk.
Dr Neil Nichol, consultant in emergency medicine said: “If you feel you need to see a doctor or nurse but your GP is closed and you don’t think it is an A&E problem, please phone NHS 24.”