NHS launches “Choose Well” campaign to combat overflow

NHS Choose Well campaign

NHS Heywood, Middleton, and Rochdale are urging people to choose the right medical service this winter after an overflow of patients coming in with common flu and cold symptoms.

The A&E department at Rochdale Infirmary sees around 57,000 patients per year and around 40% of these can be treated by quicker means and basic first aid.

Mr Don McKechnie, a consultant at Rochdale Infirmary, stated that some patients were even calling ambulances for such trivial things as a cough. He advises: “Those who develop these symptoms should rest at home, drink plenty of fluids and get advice from the local pharmacist or NHS Direct. They should certainly not be coming into A&E.”

The aim of the “Choose Well” campaign is to ensure that treatment reaches the patients who require it most urgently and it has been launched nationwide and the NHS have specified criteria for who should be consulted in what situation.

• A&E or 999 — for critical or life-threatening situations.
• NHS Walk-in Centre — for treatment of minor illnesses or injuries, without an appointment.
• GP — for medical advice, examinations and prescriptions for illnesses you just can’t shake off.
• Pharmacist — for advice on common winter illnesses, and the best medicines to treat them.
• NHS Direct (0845 4647) — for absolutely any health questions, around the clock, and to find local services.
• Self-care — for treatment of minor winter illnesses, by combining a well stocked medicine cabinet with plenty of rest.