Get the Right Treatment
Every year, millions of us visit our GP with minor health problems that can be easily resolved without a doctor's appointment.
It is estimated that every year, 50 million visits to the GP are made for minor ailments such as coughs and colds, mild eczema, and athlete's foot. By visiting your pharmacy instead, you could save yourself time and trouble.
Self-care
Keeping a well stocked medicine cabinet at home can help you treat many minor ailments. Colds, coughs, indigestion and many other minor complaints can all be treated with medicines that are available over the counter.
Your pharmacist can advise on what you might find useful to keep in your medicine cabinet. Always follow the instructions on the medicine label and consult your doctor if the illness continues or becomes more severe.
Your Local Pharmacist
Pharmacists offer professional free health advice at any time - you don't need an appointment. From coughs and colds to aches and pains, they can give you expert help on everyday illnesses. They can answer questions about prescribed and over-the-counter medicines. Your local Pharmacist can also advise on healthy eating.
Pharmacists can also advise on health eating, obesity and giving up smoking. Some pharmacists have private areas where you can talk in confidence. They may suggest you visit your GP for more serious symptoms. It is possible to purchase many medicines from the chemist without a prescription. Watch this short video on how you can get the most out of your local pharmacy.
Minor Injuries Unit
In our locality, the Urgent Care Centre has been changed to a Minor Injuries Unit. If you have a minor injury, 24/7, 365 days a year you can go to a unit at:
- Bishop Auckland Hospital DL14 6AD or
- Peterlee Community Hospital SR8 5UQ
However, we would advise that you call NHS 111 to get an appointment to reduce your waiting times.
Examples of a minor injury are:
- Sprains and strains
- Broken bones
- Wound infections
- Minor burns and scalds
- Minor head injuries
- Minor eye injuries
- Insect and animal bites
The NHS belongs to us all. Let’s use it responsibly. The way you use your NHS matters – using it wisely means we can develop and invest in local services to make your NHS fit for the future.
Phone 111 and TALK before you WALK
Accident & Emergency (A&E)
Major A&E departments assess and treat patients who have serious injuries or illnesses. Generally, you should visit A&E or call 999 for emergencies, when someone is seriously ill or injured and their life is at risk. This could include
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Major trauma, such as a serious road traffic accident, a fall from height or serious head injury
- Loss of consciousness
- Severe confused state
- Fits that are not stopping
- Breathing difficulties
- Severe allergic reactions, burns or scalds
- Severe bleeding that cannot be stopped
- Persistent, severe chest pain
- Pain that is not relieved by simple analgesia
When you dial 999 you will be assessed by a trained clinical advisor. You may receive treatment at the scene or be transferred to A&E at the most appropriate hospital. Major A&E departments offer access 365 days a year and usually open 24 hours a day. Be aware that not all hospitals have an A&E department.