A HOSPITAL trust is encouraging people to ‘make the right choice’ and take care of themselves at home over New Year.
East Lancashire Hospitals Trust have backed the #MakeTheRightChoice campaign, which encourages people to care for minor illnesses and injuries at home rather than visiting hospital, to help ease the pressure on Accident and Emergency departments.
A spokesman for East Lancashire Hospital Trust said: “Minor illnesses, ailments and injuries can be treated at home with plenty of rest and a well-stocked medicine cabinet.
“Some self-care essentials in your medicine cabinet will help you deal with minor illnesses and save you a trip when you’re feeling under the weather.
“These include painkillers, cold and flu remedies, plasters and a thermometer.”
The campaign also encourages people to make use of pharmacists.
A spokesman for the trust said: “By choosing the pharmacy you are helping us to see to our very poorly patients in A&E quicker.
“All pharmacists can recognise many common health complaints.
“They can give advice or, where appropriate, medicines that will help clear up the problem.
“If your problem is more serious and needs the attention of a GP, your pharmacist will recognise this and advise you to see your GP instead.
“What’s more, many pharmacies are open in the evenings and on the weekends.”
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