The HSE is urging people in Galway to know their care options this Bank Holiday weekend, and not to come to the Emergency Department unless it is strictly necessary.
Hospitals in Galway are expected to be extremely busy over the bank holiday weekend, with St. Patrick’s Day next Tuesday.
People who get sick or hurt over the weekend are advised that there are multiple options available, which could reduce the amount of time they spend waiting for care.
Ann Cosgrove, HSE Healthcare Manager, Galway and Roscommon said, “St Patrick’s Day is a wonderful time for communities across the region, but it is also one of the busiest times for our health services.”
“By considering all available care options, people can help ensure Emergency Departments are available for those who need them most.”
“If you urgently need to see a GP over the bank holiday weekend, you should contact your local out of hours GP service.”
“The out of hours GP service in this region is Westdoc. The service is open all weekend, but you do need to make an appointment in advance.”
“A new service is available in community pharmacies which enables a pharmacist to supply prescription-only medication for a number of common illnesses, without having to see a GP.”
“In addition to expert advice and providing over the counter treatments, community pharmacists can now prescribe medicine for eight common conditions.”
This is called the Common Conditions Service (CCS). Common conditions your pharmacist can treat under this service are: allergic rhinitis, cold sores, conjunctivitis, impetigo, oral thrush, shingles, cystitis (uncomplicated urinary tract infection), and vaginal thrush.
The Roscommon Injury Unit is also open from 8am to 8pm every day of the year. This can treat non life-threatening injuries such as broken bones, dislocations, sprains, wounds, scalds, and minor burns.
Respiratory infections and norovirus are currently circulating in the community, and people planning on visiting someone in hospital or residential care this weekend are asked to take extra care.
