On holiday this half term? Here’s where is best if you need healthcare
Whether you’re struggling with sinusitis, needing stitches or forgotten to bring a prescription, this half term the NHS is reminding residents and visitors to think carefully about which service they need. People are asked to only call 999 or visit the emergency department (ED) for life or limb emergencies so we can keep ED and our hospitals available for those who need them the most.
A well-stocked first-aid kit or medicine cabinet may come in handy for days out and 96% of Cornish pharmacists can help with a range of Pharmacy First conditions including ear infections, rashes, infected insect bites, shingles, sinusitis, urinary tract infections and sore throats – age restrictions do apply.
There’s also a network of ten minor injury units and an Urgent Treatment Centre open every day, including weekends, bank holidays and evenings – there is lots of choice available for visitors and residents alike.
Three things to know if you’re visiting Cornwall
- If you have forgotten to pack your prescription medication, pharmacists can arrange an emergency supply, even if you are far from home. You can also order a prescription online.
- If you are visiting Cornwall and need non-urgent advice, please call your own GP and not the one closest to where you are staying. You can also visit NHS 111 online or call 111 for advice, any time day or night.
- If you think you need to visit a hospital please check locations and live opening and waiting times. You can also contact NHS 111 to find out where you should go and when.
Visiting the Isles of Scilly?
The beautiful islands attract countless visitors over the year. Services on hand for people needing healthcare include the local pharmacist, their own GP back home, NHS111 or the minor injury unit.
There is information on our website on where to find services and opening times on the Isles of Scilly.
Where is best if you’re ill or injured?
If you think you need medical help, please consider Where is Best.
- Visit your local pharmacy for help with allergies, insect bites, stings and emergency contraception as well as a range of other conditions. Pharmacists can also provide an emergency prescription when your GP is closed, even if you are on holiday. Check your nearest open pharmacy. Many urgent medications can now be ordered online for collection at a local pharmacy, by visiting NHS 111 online
- Your own GP is your best point of contact for ongoing symptoms. For advice on GP services, visit the NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly website
- Minor injury units can help with conditions like broken bones and cuts that need stitches, but your nearest one might not be the quickest option. Check locations and live opening and waiting times
- The Urgent Treatment Centre at West Cornwall Hospital in Penzance is open 8am until midnight, for people needing urgent medical care for injuries and conditions such as minor burns and scalds, simple fractures to the arms and legs, cuts, urinary infections and minor falls. If you need urgent care advice, visit NHS 111 online or call 111. Expert clinicians can direct you to the best service for your needs
- If you are worried about your own or someone else’s mental health, Cornwall’s 24/7 mental health helpline can help. Call free on 0800 038 5300. For more mental health support services, visit the NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly website