The NHS in Milton Keynes is reminding patients of the various health services available this winter.
The cold weather is lingering which means it’s even more important that patients are choosing the right care and following advice around self-care and staying well in the comfort of their own homes.
Choosing well is about patients feeling empowered to choose the right service if they become ill or injured. This ensures the best treatment can be given and allows busy NHS services to help the people who need them most.
If you have a minor illness or injury think Pharmacy First, your pharmacist is a highly trained professional who can offer advice and treatment on a number of conditions. You don’t need an appointment and they are easily accessible.
You can also call NHS 111 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You will be triaged by a trained professional who will advise of the local service that can best help. If you are ever in doubt and unsure what service you need, the CCG recommends calling 111.
If you need to see a doctor, you can make an appointment to see your GP and if you need urgent medical attention, you can visit the Urgent Care Centre on the hospital site.
Self-care is also an important aspect of the health system and involves patients’ taking care of themselves and their families in the comfort of their own homes. Illnesses that can be cared for at home include coughs, colds, sore throats and grazed knees.
Local GP and Chair of NHS Milton Keynes CCG, Dr Nicola Smith, said: “During the winter period we see a yearly increase in attendances to A&E for the wrong reasons. Choosing well is about you choosing the right service and allowing people to use A&E when it’s life threatening. If you are ever in doubt of which service you need and it’s not an emergency, call NHS 111.
“Staying well at home with a well-stocked medicine cabinet, keeping warm and leading an active and healthy lifestyle can often prevent many illnesses and minor injuries.”
For more information on choosing well and self-caring at home, visit http://www.nhs.uk/livewell/
