Bank Holiday Period – NHS under Pressure

Posted by: ethan - Posted on:

Like other parts of the country, West Yorkshire health and care services remains under significant pressure due to the number of people attending A&E, calling NHS111, accessing GP, community and mental services and calling 999.

The increase in the number of people seeking help, is alongside the challenges of a difficult winter, and supporting people who are well enough to leave hospital for care in the community or returning home, which is where most people want to be. 

All colleagues are working exceptionally hard to manage the increase in demand following the festive period.

As we head into the bank holiday weekend and given the significant pressures, there is an urgent plea to only come to A&E when it is absolutely necessary so people who are most ill receive the best care possible. GPs will also be prioritising urgent and same day care.

We are urging everyone to help us get through the difficult time together, by doing the following:

  • Save time by seeking medical advice and booking appointments online visit the NHS App or your GP practice website.
  • If something’s not right and you know it’s not life-threatening and you can’t get to your GP practice, or the pharmacy is closed. visit www.111.nhs.uk or call NHS 111 for advice if you don’t have access to the internet.
  • Use 111.nhs.uk if it’s not an emergency and you need health advice quickly. The friendly team at NHS 111 will be able to help you get the care you need.
  • Stay well and protect yourselves and others around you. Find self-care tips and local services information at togetherwe-can.com
  • Visit wyhealthiertogether.nhs.uk for trustworthy healthcare advice for parents and carers.
  • Please look out for your neighbours who may live alone or be lonely.

It’s very important that people who need medical care come forward, when someone has a life-threatening illness or injury. A range of services are available to ensure Accident and Emergency Departments (A&E) are freed up to treat those with life-threatening and critical illnesses or injuries.

Care for life threatening or serious illness/injury will be prioritised; this may lead to some planned surgery being rescheduled, people will be notified directly if their treatment or appointment needs to be rearranged.