NHS Lanarkshire is urging residents to use A&E services only for life or limb threatening emergencies, helping ensure those who need urgent care receive it quickly.
Dr Shona McLellan, Emergency Medicine Consultant at University Hospital Wishaw, said: “Our emergency departments are here to care for people in life-threatening situations – stroke, chest pain, breathing problems, major trauma, loss of consciousness or severe bleeding. These are the conditions that need emergency care.
“If your condition is not life or limb threatening, please don’t come straight to A&E. Instead, call NHS 24 on 111. They’ll ask about your symptoms and direct you to the most appropriate service – helping everyone get the right care, quicker.”
Winter pressures and high demand mean emergency departments are extremely busy. By choosing the right care option, people can receive faster treatment and help keep A&E available for those in critical need.
Dr Gordon McNeish, NHS Lanarkshire Associate Medical Director for Unscheduled Care, said: “Our emergency departments are under significant pressure, especially during the winter months.
“When people choose the right care option, it helps ensure that those with life-threatening conditions get the urgent attention they need.
“This simple step makes a big difference for patients and for our clinical teams.”
Pic: Dr Shona McLellan, Emergency Medicine Consultant at University Hospital Wishaw
