People across Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin urged to use NHS services wisely

Health leaders across Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin are urging people to use services wisely to ensure critical NHS services are available for those most in need.

The industrial strike action by the British Medical Association, which means junior doctors are striking until 7am on Saturday 17 June, coupled with the hot weather has meant there has been an increase in attendances at emergency departments.

Alison Bussey, Chief Nursing Officer at NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin, said: “It is vital people are aware of the pressure our health system is under this week.

“If you need urgent medical care during the period of industrial action please come forward as normal, especially in emergency and life-threatening cases – when someone is seriously ill or injured, or their life is at risk.

“However, there are a range of other services available – such as NHS 111 online, minor injury units, and community pharmacies.

“I would urge people to use the best service for their needs. If you are feeling unwell, please consider visiting your local pharmacy (pharmacists are highly trained medical professionals who can offer help and advice with no need for an appointment) or a minor injury unit (for people with minor injuries such as sprains, simple fractures, minor burns, skin problems or eye conditions etc).

“If you are not sure where to go, visit NHS 111 online or call 111 available 24/7.”

Alison also urged people to take extra of themselves and look out for any vulnerable family members, friends or neighbours during the hot weather.

She added: “There are many precautions which can be taken to help keep people well during the warm weather to avoid putting pressures on services.

“Applying sunscreen, keeping hydrated and walking in the shade are just a few steps you can take to avoid becoming ill in the sun.

“We’d advise people to keep out of the sun at the hottest time of the day, between 11am and 3pm.

“If you are going to do a physical activity, for example exercise or walking the dog, plan to do these during times of the day when it is cooler such as the morning or evening.

“Hot weather can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, lung problems and other diseases.

“People with underlying medical conditions can also be vulnerable to the effects of hot weather.”

Further advice for adults and children on sun safety in the UK and abroad is available on the NHS website, plus a new dedicated web-platform has been developed where the current temperature alert status over the 5-days ahead is publicly available.

To find out more about which service to use, people can visit www.thinkwhichservice.co.uk online and follow the campaign on social media using #ThinkWhichService.