Consider all healthcare options and help decrease pressure on Oxfordshire hospitals

Date: 09 January 2017

emergency

Health bosses in Oxfordshire are urging people to stop and consider all the options before going to accident and emergency departments in the county.

With the winter bringing more ill-health among all age groups, demand on the health system is increased, with attendance at A&E particularly affected.

Dr Tony Berendt, medical director, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Our emergency departments have been under sustained heavy pressure since Christmas, linked to a sharp increase in flu cases, particularly in older people. Whilst the situation is still manageable, it is important we all try to use emergency departments only for emergencies.”

Pete McGrane, clinical director at Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, said: “The whole NHS system here in Oxfordshire wants to provide the right level of care, for each person who needs it, in the best place and at the right time and this is by no means always the hospital. There are good alternatives available for many of the health problems that worry us.”

If you, or someone you care for, is feeling unwell, there are a number of ways to get the right care:

  • Self-care is the best choice to treat very minor illnesses and injuries. A range of common winter illness and injuries can be treated at home simply by combining a well-stocked medicine cabinet with plenty of rest
  • You don’t need an appointment to see a pharmacist and most pharmacies have private consultation areas, so they are a good first port of call. Your pharmacist will say if you need further medical attention
  • Your doctor’s surgery can advise on most health conditions. Out of hours, the NHS 111 service is an excellent first point of call for medical advice
  • Download OCCG’s ‘Health and Care Oxfordshire’ app to your smart phone to find health services closest to where you are in Oxfordshire

Emergency Departments (A&E) and the emergency ambulance service provide vital care for life-threatening emergencies, such as loss of consciousness, suspected heart attack or stroke, severe breathing difficulties or severe bleeding that cannot be stopped. In these cases call 999 immediately.

  • Summary:

    Health bosses in Oxfordshire are urging people to stop and consider all the options before going to accident and emergency departments in the county.

  • Transformation:
  • Date: