Protecting our essential services this bank holiday

Local NHS staff are working hard to ensure that emergency services continue to run for the communities they serve and to accommodate the extra number of people in the region.

A guide for accessing urgent healthcare services, as well as advice should you develop COVID-19 symptoms, has been produced for those visiting the three counties and has been distributed to accommodation providers and tourism outlets. Anyone wishing to download and display these materials can do so by visiting: https://hduhb.nhs.wales/healthcare/tourist-and-visitor-information/

Not all hospitals in the area have a full range of paediatric services and people are reminded that if their child becomes ill, to dial 999 if it is an emergency. If it is not urgent but you need support, contact 111 for advice on where your local services are.

Jill Paterson, Director of Primary, Community and Long Term Care for Hywel Dda University Health Board said: “We’re asking our communities to use self-care and NHS community based services when appropriate so that our emergency services are available for when they are needed.

“The NHS is still here for you and we encourage those who have an urgent concern, such as new symptoms or a lump, to not delay and talk to their GP.

“Looking after ourselves is more important than ever and we can do this by trying to exercise as much as possible, eating healthily, cutting down on alcohol and giving up smoking.

“Everyone can take simple steps to stay well by washing your hands regularly, using hot water and soap or hand sanitiser, and adhering to good social distancing.

“We are grateful for the co-operation of visitors to the area, and ask that people familiarise themselves with the information on how to access urgent care while on holiday.”

You could check your medicine cabinet in advance to ensure you have a good supply of over the counter medicines which are useful to manage conditions at home. Here are some items you should keep in a child safe cupboard: 

• Painkillers e.g. paracetamol

• Rehydration mixture

• Indigestion remedy

• Plasters

• Thermometer

A number of community pharmacies will be open for a few hours on Monday August 31 to provide services such as the dispensing prescriptions, treatment for common ailments, emergency supply of medication and emergency contraception. To find your nearest open pharmacy, please visit: https://hduhb.nhs.wales/healthcare/services-and-teams/primary-care/

If you have a dental emergency, please contact your usual practice. If you do not have a regular practice, please contact 111.

If you are worried about the way you are feeling or behaving, or you are struggling to manage on your own, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Speak to your GP or ring the C.A.L.L. Mental Health Helpline on 0800 132 737, text ‘help’ to 81066 or visit www.callhelpline.org.uk

In an emergency, life-threatening situation, always call 999 and ask for an ambulance. If you need treatment that cannot wait but is not an emergency and you don’t know where to go, contact NHS Direct Wales on 111.

For a full range of FAQs, and for contact details of local healthcare services, please visit: https://hduhb.nhs.wales/healthcare/services-and-teams/primary-care/