Northamptonshire A&E departments seeing ‘busiest summer ever’, says NHS

Hospitals in Northamptonshire are seeing up to 520 patients a day as the NHS warns against unwarranted hospital visits.
A&E staff have seen no let-up this summerA&E staff have seen no let-up this summer
A&E staff have seen no let-up this summer

Doctors and nurses in county A&Es have recorded their busiest-ever summer, with no drop-off in attendees that is traditionally seen.

At Northampton General Hospital, more than 300 patients a day are now being seen in their A&E department, with KGH see on average 220 A&E patients a day.

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A spokeswoman said: “These high numbers are causing great pressure on the local hospitals and the increase in demand for services is a challenge not only for our hospitals but also for our whole health and social care community. Visits to GPs also go up at this time of year.”

NHS Nene and NHS Corby are encouraging people to be aware of how the warm summer months can have an effect on them so they can be prepared for minor illnesses and ailments.

They want to hammer home the message that A&E is for people with a life-threatening emergency such as a heart attack, stroke or a serious accident.

Dr Tom Evans, a GP and clinical executive director at NHS Nene, said: “If people do feel ill or sustain a minor injury, they can get quick and convenient treatment through self care.

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“Having a well-stocked medicine cabinet of items such as pain relief, antihistamines, oral rehydration salts, anti-diarrhoea tablets, indigestion treatment and sunscreen can help protect you and your family this summer”.

If your symptoms persist, then NHS 111 is also available 24/7 if urgent medical help or advice is needed or you may need to book a GP appointment.

Health services that are available include:

Self care

This is the best choice to treat very minor illnesses, ailments and injuries. Having a well-stocked medicine cabinet will mean you are prepared to treat a range of common illnesses and injuries such as colds, flu, bruises and stomach upsets.

Pharmacy

Your local pharmacist can provide free confidential, expert advice and treatment for a range of common illnesses and complaints, no appointment is needed.

NHS 111

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If it’s a non life threatening emergency and you are unsure of what health service you may need, you can call NHS 111. The free phone service is available 24/7 and they can provide healthcare advice or direct you to a service that can help you best.

Urgent Care Centre

These services are for the assessment and treatment of conditions which you think cannot wait for a GP appointment at your own practice, and require urgent and necessary attention, but are not life threatening.

Corby Urgent Care Centre is open 8am-8pm every day of the year. Willowbrook Health Complex, Cottingham Road, Corby NN17 2UR.