We are urging local residents to use A&E services only for life or limb threatening emergencies to help ensure those who need urgent care receive it quickly.
Dr Shona McLellan, one of our 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.
“We are asking Lanarkshire residents and visitors to not come straight to A&E if their condition is not life or limb threatening. 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 our emergency departments are extremely busy and by local residents choosing the right care option, patients attending our A&Es will 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.”
