City of York Council, the Vale of York CCG and pharmacies are reminding residents of the support available to help them stay well this winter, and the importance of getting the right care, first time.

Last month, figures released as part of the Humber, Coast and Vale Sustainability Transformation Plan (STP) revealed that:

• 27 per cent of people who book a GP appointment could have had their issue resolved a different way
• 40 per cent of A&E patients require no treatment.
  The cold weather can have a significant impact on people’s health and residents are being reminded of the services available to them this winter.

Pharmacies across the city can offer confidential, expert advice and treatment for a range of common illnesses such as colds, flu, minor rashes and pain relief.

They can also help answer any questions you may have about the medication you are taking. Many pharmacies are open late into the evening and all have a consultation room so you can speak in private. For a list of pharmacies in York go to www.nhs.uk/service-search.

Residents can also get advice from NHS111 before contacting their GP, the fast, easy and free NHS non-emergency number. When you call 111 you will speak to a highly trained adviser who is supported by healthcare professionals.

NHS 111 is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Calls are free from landlines and mobile phones. You should use the NHS 111 service if you need medical help or advice when it is not a life-threatening situation. Call 111 if:

• you need medical help fast but it’s not a 999 emergency
• you think you need to go to A&E or need another NHS urgent care service
• you don’t know who to call or you don’t have a GP to call
• you need health information or reassurance about what to do next.
  For more information on the 111 service visit: www.nhs.uk/111.

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