Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board have asked patients to ‘Choose Well’ as they expect their Emergency Departments to be busy over the weekend.

In a statement the health board said: “If you do not need emergency care, please choose alternative services. Choosing the right health service can save you time and get the right care quickly.”

 

 

If you are feeling unwell or have been injured but the problem is not a medical emergency, there are a number of options and services across North Wales to help you get the right advice and/ or treatment.

NHS Direct

NHS Direct Wales is available 24 hours a day, every day. You can call then on 0845 46 47 if you are feeling ill and are unsure what to do, or for health information on a wide range of conditions, treatments and local health services.

Pharmacies and self-care

Coughs – Minor cuts – Runny nose – Sore throats – Headache – Diarrhoea – Upset stomach? Some pharmacies can now give you antibiotics over the counter if you have a sore throat that is a bacterial infection.

Many common ailments will get better naturally, or can be managed with advice and guidance from your local pharmacist.

North Wales GP Out of Hours Service

Outside regular opening hours, you can contact the North Wales GP Out of Hours Service.

This is available between 6.30 pm and 8.00 am Monday to Friday and all day and night at weekends and bank holidays. If you need to see a doctor during these times phone 0300 123 55 66.

You’ll be assessed over the phone and advised about the most appropriate care for you. This could be given over the phone or you may be given an appointment.

Minor Injury Units (MIUs)

Cuts – Bites – Sprains – Something in your eye – Insect bites – Minor head injuries – Minor burns and scalds – minor illness

Minor Injury Units (MIUs) are for less serious injuries. No appointment is needed, and they usually offer much shorter waiting times than our main emergency departments that have to prioritise the most seriously injured patients. Examples of minor injuries are: cuts, bites, sprains, something in your eye, insect bites and minor head injuries

Find information about your local Minor Injury Unit by choosing one of the following Community Hospital sites where an MIU service is available:

Anglesey
Ysbyty Penrhos Stanley, Holyhead, Anglesey
Conwy
Llandudno General Hospital, Llandudno, Conwy
Denbighshire
Denbigh Community Hospital, Denbigh
Flintshire
Holywell Community Hospital, Holywell, Flintshire
Mold Community Hospital, Mold, Flintshire
Gwynedd
Dolgellau Hospital, Dolgellau, Gwynedd
Ysbyty Bryn Beryl, Pwllheli, Gwynedd
Ysbyty Alltwen, Tremadog, Gwynedd
Tywyn Hospital, Tywyn, Gwynedd