NHS Warning as Icy Conditions Hit Region

 As Merseyside is hit by icy conditions and a high risk of heavy snow showers NHS Merseyside is asking people to only dial 999 or visit A&E if they have an immediately life-threatening illness or emergency health problem.

NHS services are currently seeing a marked increase in activity as temperatures continue to drop and conditions become hazardous. In a bid to keep A&E and the 999 number free for genuine medical emergencies NHS chiefs are reminding people about the range of services available to local people, many of which you don’t need an appointment to attend.

Trish Bennett, Director of Service Improvement & Executive Nurse, NHS Merseyside said: “It is vital to remember that the ambulance service and A & E should not be used as an alternative to your GP if your surgery is closed.  If you require medical assistance outside of normal surgery hours, Merseyside has a wide range of alternative health services available including GP out-of-hours services, walk-in centres and pharmacists who are qualified to offer advice and treat common, everyday illnesses.

“We know that each winter we can expect more people to die in the North West because of the cold weather.  Falls and fractures are also a real concern for older people.  We’re trying to get the message out through all our networks that we need people to stay safe during this cold spell.  Not only will they be protecting their own safety, welfare and health; they will be helping to ensure services are free to deal with local emergencies.”

Alternative NHS services available to Merseyside residents:

• GP out-of-hours service – For times when you need to see a doctor when your GP surgery is closed, GP out-of-hours services are available on the usual surgery number and are staffed by local doctors and nurses who can offer advice or, if necessary, treatment at home or in a local health centre

• Walk-in centres – With no appointment necessary walk-in centres are managed by doctors and nurses who are available to deal with minor illnesses and injuries. Most are also open out of office hours, 365 days a year.
• Pharmacies –Pharmacists are qualified to offer advice on health issues and medication as well as treat coughs, colds and other common illnesses without an appointment.  For those that wish to speak to a pharmacist in private, many have a consultation rooms away from customers to discuss health queries.