South Western Ambulance Service urges responsible healthcare this bank holiday

South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT) is advising residents and tourists in the South West to utilise healthcare services responsibly, anticipating a surge in visitors to the region.

The trust has emphasised the importance of only dialling 999 in the case of life-threatening emergencies. 

Bank holiday weekends typically witness increased demand for emergency services, particularly if the weather entices people outdoors for activities such as gardening, DIY projects, family gatherings, or sightseeing.

Ahead of the bank holiday weekend, SWASFT offers the following guidance:

• Reserve 999 calls for life-threatening emergencies, such as serious illness, injury, or situations where life is at risk.
• Seek non-life-threatening medical assistance or advice through NHS 111 online.
• Ensure timely collection of repeat prescriptions.
• Rely on community pharmacies for minor ailments and medication needs. Information on open pharmacies during the May bank holiday weekend is available on an interactive map.
• Visitors to the South West are advised to contact their home GP practice for primary care needs, including online, phone, and video consultations, and prescription arrangements.

Wayne Darch, Deputy Director of Operations at SWASFT said: “We want to be there for everyone that needs us in a medical emergency, but we need your support to help us to help you. Please only call 999 in a life-threatening emergency, this will ensure we have crews available for patients with the most life-threatening conditions.

“If you need urgent medical help, but not for an emergency, please visit NHS 111 online or a community service such as a minor injury unit or a pharmacy.

“I would also like to thank our people and NHS colleagues who will be working over the bank holiday weekend to help keep us all safe and well. Should you need their support, please be kind to them, they are working hard under huge pressures currently.”

The public is urged not to call 999 for ambulance arrival times unless the patient's condition deteriorates or ambulance services are no longer required, to keep phone lines accessible for others in need.

For healthcare needs, individuals are directed to the appropriate services:

• Self-care for minor issues like grazes, coughs, and colds
• Local pharmacies for headaches, upset stomachs, and general pain management
• NHS 111 for round-the-clock advice and support
• GP consultations for persistent symptoms
• Minor injuries units for urgent non-life-threatening conditions such as sprains, fractures, and burns
• 999 for life-threatening emergencies such as cardiac arrest, severe allergic reactions, and suspected strokes