Use the right NHS service this winter

East Cheshire NHS Trust is urging the public to choose the right NHS service if they need urgent or emergency medical care this winter.

Staff across the Trust are working hard to ensure patients continue to receive timely, high-quality care when services are busy this winter and are asking the public to support their local NHS services during this busy time.

East Cheshire NHS Trust Chief Executive, Ged Murphy, said: “This time of year is always challenging, and we have been working closely with staff, the community and partner organisations to prepare.

“We want to do whatever we can to make this winter better for our patients and staff and are asking patients and visitors to support us.”

Macclesfield Hospital’s Emergency Department has already seen high attendances this year and the winter season typically adds to that pressure.

Ged added: “Emergency Departments are for genuine emergencies – if you need medical help but it’s not urgent, then your local Pharmacy, Minor Injuries Unit, or GP will be best-placed to help you. If you are unsure where to go for help, contact NHS 111 online who can provide advice and direct you to the best place for the care you need.”

People use the online 111 service for a range of reasons, including to check their symptoms and if an injury or illness requires further investigation, to get information on mental health support services available, or to seek advice on how to take a medication.

The online tool can also advise whether a patient should contact their GP, visit a pharmacist or call 999, while people can receive a call from a healthcare professional if needed.

The public can also play their part in keeping well this winter by keeping up to date with both your flu vaccination and COVID-19 booster vaccination. The NHS has stepped up its vaccinations programme in response to the new COVID-19 variant with more sites than ever, making it as easy and convenient as possible for people to get vital protection this winter.