Health advice ahead of Bank Holiday

Emergency Departments under increased strain

THE HSE are encouraging people in Galway to familiarise themselves with all available care options ahead of the June Bank Holiday weekend.

Health services typically come under increased strain during bank holiday weekends, especially when good weather encourages more outdoor activity. This may lead to longer waiting times, particularly for less urgent conditions.

The HSE is appealing to the public for patience and understanding during this particularly busy period and to choose the most suitable service for their needs before going to an Emergency Department (ED).

To help ensure that emergency care is prioritised for those who need it most, people are encouraged to think ahead and consider alternatives such as GPs, out-of-hours services, pharmacies and Injury Units where appropriate.

As many people will be spending more time outdoors, the HSE also reminds everyone to take care in the sun by drinking plenty of water, wearing sunscreen, and limiting time in direct sunlight during peak hours.

By making informed choices about where to seek care and taking simple precautions to stay safe, the public can help ease pressure on health services over the weekend.

Think before attending Emergency Department

“Our focus this bank holiday weekend is on ensuring patients get the care they need, in the most appropriate setting, and as quickly as possible,” stated Ann Cosgrove, HSE Integrated Healthcare Area Manager for Galway and Roscommon.

“Although additional measures are in place across both hospital and community services to manage the expected increase in demand, we are asking people to think about all available care options before attending an Emergency Department.

“For many non-urgent conditions, local GPs, pharmacies and Roscommon Injury Unit can offer prompt advice and treatment.

“Through the Common Conditions Service, community pharmacies are also equipped to manage a range of minor illnesses, helping patients receive care close to home and ensuring Emergency Departments are reserved for those in urgent or critical need.

“Our staff are here to support patients at all times. Everyone who presents to an Emergency Department will be assessed and treated, with priority given to those with the most serious or life-threatening conditions.

Care options available this June Bank Holiday weekend include:

GP Out-of-Hours Service (Westdoc):

If you urgently need to see a GP over the bank holiday weekend, you should contact your local out-of-hours GP service, Westdoc. The service operates across the weekend; appointments must be made in advance.

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) and vaginal thrush.

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.

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.