HSE North West asks Leitrim people to consider options before attending EDs
Emergency Departments will experience higher than normal attendances due to the bank holiday period, and the HSE is asking for the public’s patience, particularly where longer waiting times may occur.
HSE West and North West is encouraging Leitrim residents to consider all care options this May Holiday weekend before attending their local Emergency Departments.
Bank holiday periods traditionally place additional pressure on health services, which can be further compounded by good weather. People are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the range of care pathways available and to consider the most appropriate option before attending Emergency Departments (EDs).
Emergency Departments will experience higher than normal attendances due to the bank holiday period, and the HSE is asking for the public’s patience, particularly where longer waiting times may occur.
People are advised to plan ahead, choose the most appropriate care option for their needs, and to stay sun smart while enjoying time outdoors.
Care options available this May Bank Holiday weekend include:
- GP Out-of-Hours Service (Caredoc and Nowdoc):If you urgently need to see a GP over the bank holiday weekend, you should contact your local out-of-hours GP service, Caredoc and Nowdoc. The service operates across the weekend, appointments must be made in advance. GP Out of Hours information is available on the HSE website here.
- Your local pharmacy Community pharmacists provide expert advice and over-the-counter treatments for a wide range of minor illnesses. In addition to this expert advice, a new service is available which allows pharmacists to supply prescription-only medication without the need to see a GP. The following common conditions can be treated under the Common Conditions Service; allergic rhinitis, cold sores, conjunctivitis, impetigo, oral thrush, shingles, cystitis (uncomplicated urinary tract infection), vaginal thrush. Information about the scheme is available on the HSE website here.
- Injury Units – Roscommon Injury Unit:Roscommon Injury Unit is open from 8am to 8pm, seven days a week, including bank holidays. It treats non-life-threatening injuries such as broken bones, dislocations, sprains, wounds, scalds and minor burns. The unit provides services such as X-rays, plaster casts, and wound care. No appointment is required; patients can attend directly. You can find your local injury unit here.
- Mental health supportsInformation about when to get help, organisations that provide mental health services and types of specialist services are available here.
As always if you or someone else is seriously ill or needs urgent emergency care, do not delay going to the ED or dialling 999/112 for help.