While we are all staying at home it can be difficult to know what to do if you need medical help or advice, but local doctors want to remind you that there are a range of services and support available over the Bank Holiday weekend.
GP practices will be working together to ensure that people living in all areas can access primary care on the Early May Bank Holiday (Friday 8th May) if they need to.
For the Isle of Wight, residents are asked to call NHS 111 instead of their surgery on the bank holiday.
Dr Andrew Holden, a GP, says:
“The NHS is still here for you this bank holiday and we are working hard to make sure everyone is able to receive the care they need during these difficult times. In particular continue to look out for possible early signs of cancer: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cancer/symptoms.
“Please do continue to seek support if you need it, particularly in a serious or life threatening situation. The 999 service and our Emergency Departments remain open and able to treat people who need the specialist lifesaving care they provide.
“In a serious or life-threatening emergency, such as loss of consciousness, severe bleeding that can’t be stopped, signs of a stroke, chest pain or major trauma you should always call 999 or visit your nearest Emergency Department”.
Pharmacies
Pharmacists are an essential part of the NHS and need your help and support during the pandemic. Please treat staff with respect. They are doing their best to provide you with the medicines and advice you need. Most pharmacies will be open on the bank holiday Friday – please call ahead before visiting to check opening hours.
If you have a prescription to collect:
- If you are shielding, aged 70 or over, have a long-term health condition or are pregnant you should arrange collection by a relative or friend, or ask your pharmacy for help with delivery
- Ask any relatives and friends who are delivering your medicines to ensure they have seen you pick up the bag
- If your medicines are being delivered ensure you keep a safe distance when you receive them.
For everyone else, if you are going into a pharmacy in person, follow social distancing rules and the rules put in place by the pharmacy to protect you and their staff. Sales of some medicines may be restricted in quantity by pharmacies to ensure that there is enough for everyone.
Dentists
If you need dental advice, call your usual dental practice if they are open or contact 111 while they are closed, and the team can find the right support for you.
Mental health support
Over 18s can call the Safe Haven on 01983 520168 or email [email protected] from 10:00-22:00 on weekends and bank holidays. From there you can access the online resource Positive Minds. There’s also a 24/7 mental health crisis number – 01983 522214. You can also visit iwmentalhealth.co.uk.
Urgent Treatment Centre
Urgent treatment centres (UTCs) can help with a number of conditions including:
- cuts and grazes
- sprains and strains
- broken bones or fractures
- bites and stings
- infected wounds
- minor head injuries
- minor eye problems.
The Isle of Wight Urgent Treatment Centre, in St Mary’s Hospital, will be open. It is not a walk-in – people needing advice or care should call NHS 111 in the first instance, and appointments can be made – if appropriate – at the UTC.
Support helpline for vulnerable Islanders
A helpline has been set up to support our most vulnerable residents affected by coronavirus self-isolation measures.
You can call 01983 823 600 between 09:00-17:00, 7 days a week.
This phone number is for anyone
- who needs help because of self-isolation
- who is alone and needs support
- who feels vulnerable
Isle of Wight Council and voluntary networks have worked together to provide this helpline to ensure those that need assistance are supported.
If you aren’t sure who to contact for medical help or advice, the NHS 111 service is available 24/7 online at www.111.nhs.uk or by phoning 111.
Do hospitals normally close on a bank holiday? Did I miss something?