With hospital Emergency Department’s predicting a busy Saint Patrick’s Day Bank Holiday weekend, HSE Community Healthcare East are reminding Wicklow residents that there are various healthcare options available in your local community.
Martina Queally, Chief Officer of HSE Community Healthcare East comments:
“It’s common to feel unwell at this time of year with flus and colds. If someone is seriously ill or injured and their life is at risk, of course they should call 999 or attend an Emergency Department. However, for everyday issues there are many available options in the community to consider including your local GP or out-of-hours GP service, pharmacy and Injury Unit. Availing of these options can help reduce hospital overcrowding and can also mean that you receive medical assistance faster and closer to home.”
Colm Devine, Chief 1 Pharmacist, HSE Community Healthcare East, recommends visiting your local pharmacy in the first instance:
“Local Pharmacists are qualified healthcare professionals and experts in over-the-counter and prescription medicines. They can also provide advice on most illnesses and discuss whether they think you need to see a GP or out of hours service. For patients already taking medicines, it is always a good idea to keep an up-to-date list of all the medicines you take so you can share with other healthcare professionals if unwell. It is important to remember that an antibiotic is often not indicated for treatment and has no effect on viral illnesses such as colds and flus.”
Martina Queally continues:
“Out-of-Hours GP services are also available to anyone who is looking for assessment or assistance from a GP outside of normal clinic hours. County Wicklow GP out-of-hours services are provided by Caredoc, Kdoc and Edoc. It’s a good idea to find out which of these organisations serves your locality, and keep their number handy should you need it.”
An injury doesn’t always need a trip to the Emergency Department. The Injury Unit in St. Columcille’s Hospital in Loughlinstown, or similar services from private insurers, also serve the Wicklow area and can treat broken bones, dislocations, sprains and strains as well as wounds, scalds and minor burns.
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