New health resources website launched in time for Easter
By Simon Bristow
People living in Hull and the East Riding can get help and support through a new local NHS website if they become unwell over the Easter weekend.
Let’s Get Better, launched this week by the Humber and North Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership, offers comprehensive resources, support and signposting to help people live a healthier and more active life at all stages in their lives, from starting well, to living well to ageing well.
The launch of letsgetbetter.co.uk coincides with the run-up to the four-day Easter weekend, which begins on Good Friday, April 7, when many GP practices will be closed.
Health leaders say Let’s Get Better can help people ‘choose well’ and signpost them to other health services like NHS 111 online, or their nearest pharmacy, if medical help is needed. The website has lots of other information to help people get prepared for Easter.
Dr Nigel Wells, the clinical lead for the Humber and North Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership, said: “It’s important people use NHS resources sensibly and choose the right care, first time, particularly when there’s an extended public holiday like the Easter weekend.
“This means getting help from NHS 111 and Urgent Treatment Centres for more serious health concerns and urgent injuries, to using local pharmacies for minor ailments.
‘IT’S IMPORTANT TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT CARE’: Dr Nigel Wells, clinical lead for the Humber and North Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership
“A wide range of common illnesses and injuries can be treated at home simply with plenty of rest and over-the-counter medicines like paracetamol, ibuprofen, and anti-diarrhoea tablets you can buy from shops and pharmacies. Often there is no shortcut to recovery – in many cases these things just need to run their course.”
Patients are reminded that Urgent Treatment Centres can treat minor injuries like cuts, burns and suspected fractures, with no appointment necessary, though patients can contact NHS 111 first to potentially be seen more quickly.
People are being asked to only use Accident and Emergency departments or call 999 if they have a serious or life-threatening emergency.
Dr Wells said: “A&Es across the region remain extremely busy – by choosing other health services if it's not a life and limb emergency and using NHS 111 first, you will greatly help the NHS and those patients who really do need to be in A&E.”
Residents who need urgent medical help can contact NHS 111 online, via the NHS App or over the telephone – trained health professionals can advise on where to go for the best treatment or arrange clinical review through the GP out-of-hours service if appropriate.
If it's something less serious like a cough, cold or rash, people can visit their local community pharmacy for advice and support. Pharmacy opening times may vary over the bank holiday weekend – you can get more information about pharmacies through website.
Feeling well is not just about physical health – longer weekends can trigger feelings of anxiety and depression for some people, the organisation said. If you are struggling with how you are feeling, support available from organisations like The Samaritans. You do not need to have any credit or call allowance on your phone to call 116 123. You can also contact the Samaritans by emailing jo@samaritans.org.
The Mental Health Advice and Support Line for Hull and the East Riding will also remain operational over the holiday weekend. People over the age of 18 who require mental health support can call 0800 138 0990.