NHS services in Dorset are currently experiencing significant levels of demand and help from the public is requested to provide care for those who need it most by using the right services at the right time.
Please use NHS 111 online or call 111 if you need urgent care that is not life-threatening.
If face-to-face support is needed, an appointment may be booked at a local Minor Injuries Unit (MIU) or Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC). While you can simply turn up at an MIU or UTC, you may be offered an appointment later that day (or the next) or signposted elsewhere, depending on your needs.
If you need mental health support call Connection on 0800 652 0190. The Connection service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Pharmacies can help with allergies, constipation, headaches, earaches and many other ailments find a pharmacy near you.
In a life threatening situation call 999 and ask for an ambulance.
Find out more about local services at www.staywelldorset.nhs.uk.
For non-urgent healthcare or for ongoing health needs please contact your usual GP practice.
Think home not hospital.
If you, a family member, or friend are being admitted to hospital, start to think about what will happen when you leave. Please think ahead of any changes that could be made at home or any family and friends who might help to get you or your relative home as soon as possible.
Due to the extreme demands that hospitals continue to face, people may be asked to transfer to an alternative care setting out of hospital after their treatment, to start their recovery.
This is necessary so that space can be made available for the next person who needs hospital treatment.
Anyone who is likely to be affected will be informed at the earliest opportunity, and staff will work with families to support any decisions that need to be made.
Winter pressures – use staywelldorset