Be prepared and stay well these holidays
22 December 2020
With the holiday season almost here, COORDINARE has joined forces with the Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District (ISLHD) and Southern NSW Local Health District (SLHD) to encourage people to be prepared this summer period.
COORDINARE's CEO Dianne Kitcher says “It could be as simple as checking you have enough medication or medical equipment supplies available, or you have adequate repeat prescription to cover the holidays and normal business closures."
“When planning for the holidays you should restock your first aid kit, have your health action plan handy, and make a list of important health phone numbers.”
Ms Kitcher says people should keep in mind there are plenty of health care options for unexpected medical issues which don’t involve a trip to the hospital emergency department.
This includes:
- contacting your GP or nearest general practice www.healthdirect.gov.au or Radio Doctor Illawarra on 02 4228 5522
- visiting the local pharmacist
- calling after hours GP helpline (1800 022 222) for medical advice and support
- calling 000 in a medical emergency
- attending the nearest emergency department for a serious illness or injury.
South Eastern NSW PHN research shows the summer holiday period is often the busiest time of the year for our local emergency departments. We’re keen to ensure the local community and visitors to the area are aware of the range of options available when seeking medical assistance for minor ailments including things like sunburn, minor cuts or toothaches.
“So, if you or someone you know is unwell over the holidays, ask yourself, ‘Is my urgency an emergency’?”
More information www.makingtherightcall.info