19 Jan 2009

As this year’s winter weather really hits Buckinghamshire, the pressure on NHS organisations becomes greater; placing a higher demand on all the health service across the county.

Local doctors Dr Geoff Payne (Buckinghamshire Primary Care Trust) and Dr Graz Luzzi (Buckinghamshire Healthcare Trust) have come together to encourage sensible use of services.  Dr Payne says “This is always an incredibly busy period for the NHS and so far this year is no exception.  We rely on local people to use the services wisely and in the most appropriate way. For example, instead of visiting the local A&E Department as a first point of call, patients should consider calling NHS Direct and discussing their problem with a trained nurse.  They should also consider taking advice from their local pharmacist, or GP surgery, many of whom now offer extended opening hours.”

Dr Luzzi adds: “Patients should only call 999 if they are suffering a life-threatening condition or other serious emergency helping to ensure that only the most seriously injured or sick receive an ambulance as quickly as possible.”

For important information on how you can help reduce the risk of passing on norovirus in our hospitals click here.

There are many treatment options in Buckinghamshire:

Self help and the pharmacy

A well-stocked medical cabinet will help treat many everyday illnesses at home. A pharmacist can offer expert advice on common complaints like coughs, colds, sore throats, flu, aches, pains and diarrhoea as well as over the counter medicines.

Out-of-hours GP cover

For problems that cannot wait until your GP surgery opens and cannot be dealt with by your pharmacist or NHS Direct, there is an out-of-hours primary care service available.  Call your GP practice for instructions on about what to do on their answerphone.

Buckingham Community Hospital Minor Injuries Unit (MIU)

You don’t need an appointment to use the MIU - although check opening hours over Christmas/new year on 01280 813243. Staff treat problems including sprains and strains, cuts and grazes, fractures, bites and stings, infected wounds, minor head injuries, minor burns, scalds and eye problems, such as infections and scratches.

Serious accidents, emergencies and dialling 999

There is a 24/7 accident and emergency department at Stoke Mandeville Hospital providing a service for all emergency serious and life-threatening conditions, and an emergency medical centre (EMC) at Wycombe Hospital providing care for people with suspected heart attacks or stroke, severe chest pain, respiratory problems and overdoses/poisoning.

Dental problems

For dental problems outside normal surgery hours local people should call the out of hours dental care helpline on 0845 602 0703.

Dr Payne goes on to advise elderly and vulnerable patients to stay indoors and keep warm during particularly cold weather; to eat well and keep fluid intake up to avoid becoming dehydrated; especially if suffering from any form of stomach bug.

He also suggests local people to look out for those who live alone; providing a watchful eye over the elderly and infirm.

Helpful hints and tips:

1.  Comprehensive healthcare advice is available 24/7 from NHS Direct on 0845 4647 or via the website www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk – the website now also includes more detailed advice for patients suffering from colds or flu like symptoms including a new online cold and flu checker.

2.  Don’t forget it’s not too late to get your Flu jab – it will cover you for a year and patients aged 65 and over, and those with certain medical conditions and carers are entitled to it free of charge.

3.  Patients can find out more about their nearest health services via the NHS Choices website www.nhs.uk