A&E is for serious or life-threatening emergencies only and to ensure you get the right care over the holiday period, Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust (SASH) is reminding people about the range alternative local NHS healthcare services available.
Dr Ben Mearns, chief of medicine at SASH, which runs East Surrey Hospital, said: “If you become ill over the holiday period there are many NHS services that can help you get better depending on your condition.
“For less serious, urgent conditions including sprains or fractures your nearest Minor Injuries Unit or Urgent Care Centre can care for you.
“If you do not have an urgent condition, consider making an appointment with your GP. If the GP practice is closed, call 111 – the free NHS phone service, which is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to get advice on the most appropriate care.
“For conditions such as coughs, colds or upset stomach and other common illnesses, local pharmacists are qualified to offer advice and dispense medicines.”
- For more information about using alternative services, such as pharmacists visit Help my NHS eastsurreyhelpmy.nhs.uk
- For advice to help prevent getting ill and self-manage minor illnesses visit NHS Choices https://www.nhs.uk/pages/home.aspx
