Choose Well
To help you decide which service to use, if you are in any doubt contact NHS Direct Wales on 0845 46 47 www.nhsdirect.wales.nhs.uk
Please think carefully before going straight to the emergency department (A&E).
Choose well so that:
Be prepared by having essential medicines at home in a child safe cupboard (see self care above)
Who to contact:
EMERGENCIES e.g loss of consciousness, severe chest pain, serious bleeding, severe pain, cannot talk in sentences….. |
Dial 999 and ask for the ambulance service for serious emergencies. If you are injured or seriously ill you should go or be taken to the Emergency Department (A&E). Welsh ambulance Service has a range of staff and volunteers that will come and treat you depending on the seriousness of the situation and how close they are to you. |
When and why? Emergency services are very busy. They should only be used in very serious or life threatening situations. essential treatment is given as quickly as possible. Dialling 999 or using A&E when you don’t need to could delay treatment for someone else. |
URGENT CARE e.g. shortness of breath, persistently raised temperature, abdominal pain, minor injuries….. |
If you need urgent health care for your physical and mental health, phone your GP Surgery or the GP out of hours service. If you need treatment that cannot wait contact NHS Direct Wales on 0845 46 47. For urgent dental care phone NHS Direct Wales Dental Helpline on 0845 46 47. For urgent social care phone Social Services who do have an out of hours number 08708 509508. |
When and why? You should avoid going to the Emergency Department unless it is a serious emergency. If you do, you may have to wait a long time as priority is always given to emergencies. Choosing well means that you and your family will receive the best possible treatment when you need it. |
ROUTINE CARE e.g. repeat prescriptions, blood test, illness, contraception….. |
Your local GP surgery is the first place you should go for all health care. You can book an appointment to be seen within 2 days, further in advance or possibly the same day. Your GP will refer you to a hospital or other services if you need further care. |
When and why? Make an appointment with your local GP when you have an illness or injury that isn’t an emergency. Choosing well means that you get the treatment you need at a convenient time and reduces the demand on emergency services. |
COMMUNITY SUPPORT e.g. coughs, colds, stopping smoking, support group….. |
Your local Pharmacist can give you expert advice and support on common illnesses and any medicine you may need without booking an appointment. A local voluntary organisation may be able to provide the help that you need such as a support group or extra care. |
When and why? Visit your local pharmacy for advice and treatment. You could contact a local voluntary organisation in your area. Choosing well means that you get the treatment or help you need as quickly as possible |
ADVICE e.g. what should I do? Where shall I go to get the right help for my problem?..... |
NHS Direct Wales offers confidential health advice and information about services that are available 24 hours a day. You can phone the helpline on 0845 46 47 or visit the website www.nhsdirect.wales.nhs.uk |
When and why? health services in your local area. |
SELF CARE e.g. sore throat, cough, sprains, hangover... |
Keep a first aid kit and simple medicines at home in case you or your family needs them. You can ask for further advice from NHS Direct Wales. |
When and Why? Choosing well means that you and your family get the rest and recovery you need. |
In emergencies always dial 999
Useful links:
Dewis Cymru is the place to go if you want information or advice about your well-being – or want to know how you can help somebody else.