Please choose the right healthcare service as NHS faces extremely high demand

Communities across Coventry and Warwickshire are being advised that demand on NHS services is extremely high. As a result, UHCW NHS Trust is urging patients to use services appropriately, while still seeking care if they need it.

Patients can help reduce demand and ensure care is available to those who need it by using the right service for their needs. For non-life-threatening requirements, patients are advised to first contact 111 online, and to only use 999 for life-threatening emergencies.

NHS 111 is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week - online at 111.nhs.uk or by calling 111, and should be the first port of call if you need urgent medical advice but it’s not an emergency.

The service can:

• Help you find the right care quickly
• Connect you with a clinician, such as a nurse or GP
• Book you an appointment if needed, including at out-of-hours services
• Direct you to your nearest pharmacy, GP, or Urgent Treatment Centre

By planning ahead and choosing the right service, you can avoid waits and help keep our Emergency Department free for people who need it the most.

Pharmacists are here to help

Local pharmacies are a convenient option for a range of minor health concerns including coughs, colds, insect bites, rashes, sore throats and stomach upsets. Pharmacists are qualified healthcare professionals who can offer expert advice, reassurance and treatment. Many have private consultation rooms and you don’t need an appointment.

Choose the Urgent Treatment Centre for minor injuries and illnesses

The Coventry Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC), located on the first floor inside the City of Coventry NHS Healthcare Centre, and the Rugby UTC at the Hospital of St Cross provide urgent care services to patients daily. Injuries and illnesses that can be treated include small wounds, vomiting and diarrhoea including stomach aches, animal bites/stings, minor burns and strains, skin conditions, ear and throat infections, hay fever, wound dressing care and the removal of stitches.

Our Emergency Department is for life-threatening emergencies

We are always here if you need emergency care - such as for chest pain, breathing difficulties, signs of stroke, serious injuries, or if someone is unconscious. In these cases, you should always call 999 or attend our Emergency Department.

But for everything else, using the right service, whether that’s NHS 111, a pharmacist, or your GP, means you’ll be seen more quickly, and helps to keep hospitals and ambulance services available for those with the greatest need.