People across Bath are being called upon to show their support for the local NHS ahead of the upcoming May bank holiday weekend.
Photo courtesy of the RUH
With many non-urgent health and care services, including GP practices and pharmacies, set to close from the end of the day on Friday 26th May until the morning of Tuesday 30th May, it is essential for the public to utilise appropriate healthcare options.
To ensure that urgent and emergency care services are available for those in critical need, individuals are encouraged to seek help from the NHS 111 service at 111.nhs.uk.
Minor illnesses and injuries can often be treated at home, and people are advised to explore self-care options before considering a visit to an urgent treatment centre or hospital emergency department.
Andrew Hollowood, Chief Medical Officer, Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Before visiting an urgent treatment centre or hospital emergency department, please consider all the local healthcare options available.
“We see patients in order of clinical need, so people arriving with conditions that are not critical or life-threatening could be waiting some time to be seen.
“Any person not sure of what to do should use NHS 111, which is open 24/7, 365 days a year, and can offer health advice and information on the best local service.”
For anyone uncertain about the appropriate course of action, the NHS 111 service is available 24/7, providing health advice and guidance on the best local service for an individual’s specific needs.
In order to further support the local NHS, residents can treat minor illnesses and injuries using common over-the-counter items.
There will be a number of pharmacies open throughout the weekend, and a comprehensive list, along with their operating hours, can be found on the Your Health pages of the bswtogether.org.uk website.
As the bank holiday weekend coincides with favourable weather conditions, it is vital for individuals to prepare for outdoor activities and take precautions to avoid sunburn and heat-related illnesses.
By taking appropriate measures, such as applying sunscreen, staying hydrated and seeking shade when necessary, people can enjoy their time outdoors while safeguarding their health.
Gill May, Chief Nurse, Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board, said: “We all know there is never a quiet moment in the NHS, and that it doesn’t take a lot for the everyday pressure to really ramp up.
“That is why we are once again making a direct plea to our residents to do whatever they can to support us before, during and after this next bank holiday weekend.”
“Simple steps, such as restocking the medicine cabinet, knowing how to use NHS 111 and making use of those pharmacies that are open, may seem small actions in isolation, but when repeated across the entire region, will really make a difference.”
Chief Medical Officer, Andrew Hollowood continued: “When out and about in the sun this long weekend, do take care, as sunburn doesn’t just happen on holiday.
“Even when it’s cloudy, use SPF 30+, wear a hat and sunglasses, seek shade and cover up, particularly during the hottest parts of the day.”
