Emergency Care

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).
When you dial 999 you may not get an emergency ambulance response. The

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.
Choosing well means that

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?
Contact NHS Direct Wales if you are ill and have questions about your health, or the health of your family. They can help to find

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?
Self care is the best  choice to treat very minor illnesses and injuries.

Choosing well means that you and your family get the rest and recovery you need.