The local NHS is asking people across the area to use the right service at the right time if they do need medical help over the Christmas and New Year.
Health and care teams across Hertfordshire and west Essex will be working around the clock to look after people as local communities celebrate the festive period and also ring in the New Year, with a range of services also open over the two Bank Holidays.
For urgent support with non-emergency medical issues, visit 111.nhs.uk or call 111. NHS 111 can offer you advice and help you get seen by the right NHS service if you need medical attention. Minor issues like sprains, cuts, or scalds can be treated at local Minor Injury Unit or Urgent Treatment Centre located in Welwyn Garden City, St Albans, Watford, Hemel, Stevenage, Cheshunt, Bishop’s Stortford and Harlow. For details about services available, visit https://www.hertsandwestessex.ics.nhs.uk/your-health-and-care/support/urgent/
For the NHS, the first week of January is historically one of the busiest of the year, partly as a result of seriously ill people putting off seeking help over the bank holidays. If you or a loved one are very ill at Christmas or the new year, get medical advice straight away. Early help can prevent hospital admissions and save lives.
Many community pharmacies are open over the Christmas and New Year, offering advice and treatment for minor illnesses and injuries. Through Pharmacy First, pharmacists can issue medication for common conditions like sore throats and UTIs, without a GP prescription.
If you catch a common winter bug like COVID-19 or flu, you can often look after yourself safely at home. Getting plenty of rest and taking over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or paracetamol can help you look after your health if you do feel poorly over the New Year.
Winter can evoke contrasting emotions: some look forward to festive joy, while others face mental health challenges. The NHS is here for you and support is available 24/7 for anyone who is struggling. A range of confidential support services are available throughout the festive season, including Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. There are NHS Mental Health Crisis Lines: Call 111 and select the mental health option for 24/7 urgent support. Or you can contact Samaritans who offer a free, confidential, 24-hour listening service for anyone who needs to talk. Call 116 123 or visit their website at samaritans.org.
More information at www.hertsandwestessex.ics.nhs.uk/winter