People are being urged to know where to seek medical help as A&E departments continue to see high demand.
The ECHO has previously reported on the "terrifying reality" of the crisis in our NHS as A&E departments across Merseyside show scenes of desperation and chaos. With corridors full of patients, people being treated on beds outside of wards, staff are stretching themselves to the limit.
A senior doctor has previously spoken out about how the new Royal Liverpool Hospital is "harming" patients and the city and an inspection at the Aintree Hospital found patients to be ‘at risk of harm’.
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With a high demand on services, people are being urged to know when they should attend a walk in centre for medical treatment, rather than attending their A&E department. Mersey Care has shared vital information about each NHS service and when you should attend.
Accident and Emergency or calling 999 should be for life threatening illnesses or serious injuries. For urgent medical care, you can contact NHS 111 online or by calling 111 which is available 24 hours a day.
Walk in centres can provide consultations, advice and treatment for new minor injuries and illnesses. There are sites across Liverpool, Knowsley and South Sefton. Find your nearest one here.
You can attend a Walk In Centre with:
- minor burns and scalds
- eye infections and injuries
- allergic reactions
- minor cuts and wounds
- Muscle or joint injuries (e.g. sprains and strains)
For urgent and routine appointments you should contact your GP and a pharmacist can help treat or give advice on minor illnesses. They are experts in medicines and will help you decide if you need to see a doctor.
For further advice on self care or services you can access, you can find further details here.
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