The Isle of Wight NHS Trust is currently facing increased demand for its services, with additional pressure expected over the New Year Bank Holiday weekend.
The continuing threat posed by Covid-19 and the usual winter pressures including staff sickness, means that it’s important that local people are using the right services for healthcare support, so that frontline staff can focus on those most in need.
Use NHS 111 first
If it’s not an emergency, people can visit NHS111 online or call NHS 111 in the first instance, where they will have access to a range of local healthcare services.
This includes appointments with the urgent treatment centre, GP out-of-hours service or a telephone call with a healthcare specialist to allow people to receive care and advice at home.
Five ways to help emergency NHS services this weekend include:
- Using the pharmacy for minor ailments and advice. There are a number of Island pharmacies open over the New Year bank holiday weekend.
- Visiting NHS 111 online or call NHS 111 for advice and support and before turning up at the Urgent Treatment Centre or A&E.
- Self-isolating and booking a PCR if you have any of the COVID-19 symptoms which include a high temperature, new continuous cough or loss of smell or taste.
- Following the national advice about Hands, Face, Space and Fresh Air where possible – not just for the pandemic, but to help keep down the number of other bugs which thrive in the winter months.
- Getting your booster jab. If you haven’t, then you can visit Riverside Vaccination Centre on New Year’s Day anytime between 8am and 3pm.
Parker:
Steve Parker, Medical Director for the Isle of Wight NHS Trust said,
“We are experiencing a very busy time in our hospital and across all health care services and we expect the pandemic and the usual winter pressures to bring additional pressures, with our teams working hard to deliver high quality care.
“We thank our community for their continued support in following COVID-19 guidelines and getting vaccinated to help protect themselves, their families and the NHS and I urge you to help us help you by using emergency services appropriately.
“There is a wealth of other support on offer for non-urgent physical and mental health. You can access health care advice from our local community pharmacies and visit NHS 111 online. By taking these steps in the first instance, you will allow the health care services to focus on those patients that need our services most.
“We encourage you to continue to keep safe by practising the advice given to have your COVID and flu vaccinations, to wear a mask in public spaces and for those spending time indoors with loved ones, to ensure the space is well ventilated. We wish everyone a safe and healthy New Year.”
News shared by Isle of Wight NHS Trust, in their own words. Ed
