Public urged to keep Emergency Department for emergenices
Extra pressure expected over holiday weekend
HSE West and North West is advising people in Galway and Roscommon to be aware of their healthcare options this Bank Holiday weekend.
January has been extremely busy across health services in the region, with continued high levels of attendance at Emergency Departments and sustained demand for inpatient care.
The health authority points out that those who fall ill over the coming days should be aware that there are a number of healthcare options available. The advice is to plan ahead, know your options and stay safe.
Ann Cosgrove, HSE Healthcare Manager, Galway and Roscommon said, “January has placed significant pressure on our hospitals, with high numbers of patients requiring care across emergency, medical and surgical services. Our staff have worked exceptionally hard to meet this demand and we are doing everything we can to minimise any delays for patients in accessing care.
“Emergency departments tend to be busier at holiday weekends than at other times of the year. We are asking people to choose the right care in the right place over the bank holiday. This helps ensure that emergency departments can focus on those who are most unwell.
“We continue to monitor service pressures closely and are working to support patient flow, including timely discharge planning and the use of community supports where appropriate.”
WHERE TO SEEK HELP
•Those who urgently need to see a GP over the bank holiday weekend should contact Westdoc. The service is open all weekend, but patients do need to make an appointment in advance.
•Roscommon injury unit is open from 8am to 8pm every day, which treats non life-threatening injuries such as broken bones, dislocations, sprains, wounds, scalds, and minor burns. They can help with many of the injuries people go to the emergency department for including x-rays. You do not need an appointment to attend.
•The National Ambulance Service (NAS) has advised that Bank Holiday weekends also see an increase in call outs and are also urging the public to consider all care pathways in advance of contacting them. Please dial 112 or 999 for emergency care if there is concern for serious illness or injury.
•A range of support and advice is available from local pharmacies.