Winter Health Hub
Lanarkshire residents are urged to familiarise themselves with the wide range of NHS services where they can get help in lots of ways if they feel unwell this winter.
It’s important to go for the right care in the right place in order to keep emergency departments free for those with life-threatening care needs.
People requiring urgent care for a condition that isn’t life-threatening should call NHS 24 on 111 first – day or night – before attending A&E. NHS 24 will assess them by telephone and refer them to the right care, delivered by the right healthcare professional, as close to home as possible. This could include self-care at home or advice on the most appropriate care such pharmacy, optician, dentist, GP or minor injuries unit.
Many common conditions such as small cuts and bites, sprains and pain etc. can be treated at home with over-the-counter medications that everyone should keep at home including paracetamol/ibuprofen and antiseptic cream/spray.
Local community pharmacies should be the first port of call for advice about minor illnesses such as sickness and diarrhoea. Pharmacists can also provide some medicines if required.
People can also prepare for winter by checking repeat prescriptions and supplies of essential medications.
Throughout Lanarkshire opticians can provide care for emergency eye problems without the need to go to A&E, whilst emergency dental care is also available from all local dental practices.
GP practices in Lanarkshire continue to offer phone, video and in-person consultations, so anyone with health concerns they believe requires the input of a GP should contact their GP.
Anyone feeling in need of emotional or mental health support can find a range of help online. The NHS Lanarkshire Mind Matters website offers a wide range of resources and information.  People can also call Samaritans on 116123, email jo@samaritans.org or call Breathing Space on 0800 838587 or, for more direct support, they can contact their GP or NHS24 on 111.
For life threatening emergencies, always call 999.
To find out more about the services offered by NHS Lanarkshire, visit https://www.nhslanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk/experts/
To find details of services closest to you, use the services directory on NHS Inform:Â www.nhsinform.scot
