Black Country patients advised to use the 'right' NHS service as flu cases reach 'concerning rates' in hospitals
Black Country residents are being advised to double check which service they need this winter to help ease pressures on NHS hospitals and GP clinics as the number of people in beds for flu reaches 'concerning rates'.
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As temperatures plummet, so does people's health - colder temperatures typically bring with them an increase in respiratory conditions, colds, flu, and injuries from slips and falls.
This surge, combined with existing winter pressures on hospital services, means that more people are likely to need urgent care.
It comes as recent figures from NHS England show that an average of 4,469 flu patients were in beds in England each day last week, including 211 in critical care.
This is up 17 per cent from 3,818 the previous week, when 184 were in critical care and is more than four times the number on December 1, when the figure was 1,098.
When comparing to last winter, the average number of flu patients in hospital in England each day last week is up sharply on the equivalent week last year when the average was 1,312.
However, it is lower than this point two years ago, when the figure stood at 5,441.
To ensure that emergency departments are available for those who need them most, the NHS in the Black Country is reminding people to choose the appropriate service for their need.
People who need medical help that isn’t an emergency are advised contact NHS 111 in the first instance by visiting 111.nhs.uk or by calling 111 - from there they will be directed to the most appropriate local health service, including out-of-hours GP services, pharmacies, a walk-in centre, or an A&E department.
Patients can also get treatment for seven common conditions directly from their local pharmacy without the need to visit a GP.
Dr Ananta Dave, Chief Medical Officer for NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board, said: “January is a challenging time for the NHS, with many people seeking help for seasonal illnesses, minor injuries and other health concerns.
“The cold and icy weather conditions forecast for the next few days also pose additional risks for individuals with long-term health conditions as well as those who are more vulnerable to the cold such as the elderly and young children, increasing demand for services.
“The NHS is asking local people to think which service they may need and to use the most appropriate services for their needs over the coming weeks.
“By taking simple steps like using pharmacies for minor ailments, getting vaccinated against respiratory illnesses such as flu and COVID-19 if you’re eligible, and using NHS 111 for advice, you can help us ensure that our A&E departments are there for those who need urgent and emergency care the most.”
A&E and 999 should only be used for serious and life-threatening conditions.
Those who are eligible for flu vaccinations are being asked to visit one of the many pop-up clinics in the Black Country that are providing flu and Covid jabs.
Patients can walk in without an appointment. To find your nearest pop-up clinic, visit the NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board (ICB) website.
