People living in and visiting Bath are being asked to carefully consider their options for healthcare due to continued pressure on the local NHS.
Photo courtesy of the RUH
With health services still experiencing intense demand, which has been exacerbated by the ongoing number of Covid-19 cases, health leaders are appealing to the public to make use of pharmacies and be prepared to treat minor conditions themselves rather than relying on A&E departments and doctors’ surgeries.
They are also asking local people to have their Covid-19 jabs if they have not already done so, and to not visit people in hospital if they feel unwell.
Pharmacies across the region are available for people to drop in to for expert advice on many common illnesses such as headaches, sore throats and aches and pains, and there is no need to book an appointment.
Pharmacies can also give help and information on different medicines people can buy over the counter to help manage their illness.
Many minor conditions and symptoms can also be managed at home without seeking further advice. Visit the NHS website, www.nhs.uk, for a complete guide to conditions, symptoms and treatments, including what to do and when to get help.
Gill May, Chief Nurse at Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board said: “We are lucky enough to live and work in a beautiful area which people from all over the country are keen to visit, especially during the school holidays.
“As we expect to see an increase in visitor numbers, we would like to thank those staying with us on holiday, as well as those who work and live in the area, for thinking carefully about how to use local health and care services.
“By doing so, they will be helping our under-pressure health services during this busy time.”
