Public thanked for support as A&E remains busy

A hospital trust is continuing to appeal for members of the public to stay away unless absolutely necessary.
Wigan InfirmaryWigan Infirmary
Wigan Infirmary

Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh NHS Foundation Trust’s A&E remains busy and it is asking people only come to department if they have been involved in a serious accident or if they have a serious or life-threatening injury or condition.

Mary Fleming, Director of Operations said: “I would like to say thank you for the thoughtful response by patients in the Wigan borough, we really appreciate everyone for making the right decisions on choosing the most appropriate healthcare for their condition.

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“A&E is there to treat serious or life-threatening situations requiring urgent medical attention, such as loss of consciousness, heavy blood loss, suspected broken bones, persistent chest pain, difficulty breathing, overdoses, ingestion or poisoning.

“We are asking everyone to consider all the sources of healthcare that are available across the borough so they get the right care in the time appropriate to their condition.”

If you attend A&E with a minor condition or illness you may be directed to a more appropriate service available to local residents which include:

•Extended GP service: You can also book an appointment to see a GP or Nurse until 8pm weekdays and between 10am and 4pm at the weekend. Registered Wigan Borough patients can call 01942 482848 and book an appointment thorough this service.

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•Out of hours GP service: If you need non-emergency medical help outside of your GP opening hours, please contact the Out-of-Hours service on 01942 829911.

•Walk-in Centre: For treatment of cuts, bruises, minor infections, stomach upsets, strains and skin complaints, without an appointment. Leigh Health Centre, The Avenue, Leigh, WN7 1HR. Tel 01942 483453.

•Pharmacists are experts in providing medical information and advice, including coughs, colds, wheezing and minor ailments. You can just drop in to see your pharmacist and many have private consultation areas. They can also advise on any over the counter remedies available and, if you need specialist medical advice, can point you in the right direction.

•The NHS 111 service for non-emergency medical help. It is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and is staffed by fully trained advisors and experienced clinicians.

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•For serious medical emergencies, such as chest pain, stroke, severe abdominal pain, severe bleeding, severe breathing difficulties, major broken bones and serious head injuries, go to the emergency department or dial 999.

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