Swansea Bay health board is asking people to “think carefully” before going to the Emergency department
The Emergency Department is “extremely busy”(Image: Marc White)
A health board on Wales has asked people to “think carefully” as they are “under extreme pressure due to extra demand”. A large amount of patients with flu and other winter-related illnesses has put pressure on the Emergency Department (ED or A&E) at Morriston Hospital in Swansea.
The Swansea Bay University Health Board has asked people within the Swansea community to “think carefully before coming to ED” unless you or a loved one is experiencing a serious or life-threatening illness.The health board said: “Our Emergency Department (ED or A&E) is always busy, but right now it’s under extreme pressure due to extra demand for our care, with flu and other winter-related illness circulating widely throughout the community.So please think carefully before coming to ED – there are numerous alternatives which can provide the care and support you need. However, if you or a loved one has a serious or life-threatening illness e.g. a suspected heart attack, cardiac arrest, chest pains, suspected stroke, breathlessness, heavy blood loss or a severe injury, don’t hesitate to ring 999 immediately or go to our ED, situated at Morriston Hospital.”There are alternative options available in the area to get help before visiting the ED. Never miss a Swansea story by signing up to our newsletter hereGo to the 111 Wales website to check symptoms and for advice on a wide range of conditionsContact your GP surgery but if you need help when your doctors’ surgery is closed, call 111.Visit your local community pharmacy for advice and treatment for a wide range of common ailments. Many pharmacies also provide a sore throat test and treat service for those aged six and over.Contact your own dentist for dental/gum pain as they can provide emergency treatment. If you are not registered with a practice or develop a problem outside of normal working hours call 111 and they will help you find your nearest emergency dentist.Attend the Minor Injuries Unit (MIU) at Neath Port Talbot Hospital.MIU can treat anyone age one and up. You must NOT go to the MIU with a suspected heart attack/cardiac arrest, chest pains, stroke or serious illness, or severe injury.24/7 mental health support is available over the phone in Swansea Bay. People living in Swansea and Neath Port Talbot who need urgent support with mental health issues can call a team of mental health professionals for free, day or night. Calling 111 and choosing option 2 puts callers in direct contact with a team of 20 mental health professionals based at Neath Port Talbot Hospital. The service is available for anyone in Swansea and Neath Port Talbot with a mental health concern, including relatives who need advice.
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