During Self Care Week (16 – 22 November) self management uk wants to remind you about why it’s important to choose well when accessing local health services, so that everyone can get the best out of the NHS.
It is important to make the most of the range of NHS services available to you and choose the right health service for your health needs. There might even be something you can do for yourself first, especially when it comes to minor ailments or injuries such as, colic, flu, sprains or strains.
The NHS constitution, which is the NHS handbook, says ‘please recognise you can make a significant contribution to your own and your family’s good health and wellbeing and take responsibility for it.’ It is important, therefore, that people understand what they can first do for themselves before accessing health services.
Most people are very capable of looking after themselves most of the time, self-treating when it’s safe and knowing where and when to seek help when they need it. However, there are 3.7m visits to A&E for self-treatable conditions such as flu, colic and sprains which adds to pressure in the health system.
Before you visit A&E, remember what it’s there for. It provides vital care for life threatening emergencies, such as loss of consciousness, suspected heart attacks, breathing difficulties, or severe bleeding that cannot be stopped.
If you have a cold, flu or sore throat, ask yourself, do I want to spend 4 hours in A&E or should I call NHS 111, look-up NHS Choices or could I ask the pharmacist first?
Invest in your NHS, and your health, practice Self Care for Life during Self Care Week and always.
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4. For more information contact: Sarah Barker; [email protected]; 07500 039696
