NHS Dorset is asking local people to plan ahead and use the right service so care is available for those who need it most. This includes pharmacies, NHS 111, Minor Injury Units and Urgent Treatment Centres.
Vaccinations
Flu and COVID-19 vaccinations are still available for those who are eligible.
Having your vaccination is one of the best ways to protect you and your family from getting very ill this winter.
Winter viruses spread more easily in cold weather, and vaccinations can lower the risk of serious illness and helping you avoid a hospital stay.
To find out more about how to get your vaccinations or about local walk-ins, visit the vaccination pages: www.staywelldorset.nhs.uk/vaccinations/
Choosing the right service
It can be hard to know which service to contact when you or your family feel unwell.
NHS Dorset has created this simple guide for people to follow:
Not sure where to go, need quick health advice or need urgent dental help?
Visit NHS 111 online or call 111. This is the fastest way to get advice when you are not sure which service to use. It can direct you to the right care and, in some cases, book appointments. If you are unsure where to go, call 111 who can help direct you to the right service.
If you are wanting health advice for someone under five, call 111.
For minor illnesses such as earache, sinus issues, tummy bugs or urine infections:
Visit a pharmacy. Pharmacies can offer expert advice and supply medicines. Many also provide Pharmacy First where pharmacists can provide prescription medicines for 7 common conditions including sinusitis, sore throat, earache, impetigo, infected insect bites, shingles, uncomplicated UTIs in women) without a GP visit.
If you have an injury that needs attention but is not life-threatening:
Minor Injuries Units (MIU) and Urgent Treatment Centres (UTC) can treat you if your injury is not life threatening or serious. Using your MIU or UTC allows staff at the Emergency Department to concentrate on people with serious, life-threatening conditions. You will probably see a shorter wait for your treatment too.
These services can help with:
- sprains and strains
- cuts, grazes and wounds
- minor burns or scalds
- minor fractures
- simple eye injuries
You do not need an appointment, but if you call 111 they will help make sure you get to the right place.
For life-threatening injuries or illnesses: Call 999 or go to your nearest A&E:
Only call 999 when someone is seriously injured or ill and their life may be at risk. For example, if someone is unconscious, not breathing or is bleeding heavily.
If an ambulance has been arranged for you, please only call back if the patient’s condition worsens or you wish to cancel the ambulance.
Find urgent and emergency care: Emergency – Stay Well Dorset
For mental health support:
Call Connection on 0800 652 0190 (open 24/7), or visit Mental health – Stay Well Dorset
Young people aged 11 to 25 can also use Kooth.com for free online support.
You can also call Samaritans free on 116 123 at any time if you need someone to talk to.
If someone is seriously ill or injured and their life is in danger, always call 999.
For urgent dental care:
Urgent dental services are available in Dorset, even if you are not registered with an NHS dentist. Patients can access these services quickly through NHS 111.
Be prepared at home:
Stocking up on simple essentials like paracetamol, plasters, a thermometer and indigestion remedies can help you manage minor illnesses without needing to go out. Your local pharmacist can advise on what to keep in your medicine cabinet.
Check in on family, friends and neighbours, especially if they are older or unwell.
Help protect patients and staff at our hospitals from highly contagious illnesses. Don't visit loved ones if you have symptoms of a cough, cold, respiratory illness, diarrhoea, or vomiting. Norovirus – Stay Well Dorset
It's important that anyone who is feeling unwell or has been experiencing diarrhoea or vomiting be clear of any symptoms for at least 48 hours before visiting.
Download the NHS App -The NHS App makes it easier to manage your health. You can order repeat prescriptions, see your GP appointments, get trusted NHS advice and even book your vaccinations. Learn more at: www.staywelldorset.nhs.uk/digital/
Healthcare at your fingertips:
There are many apps and services that can get you the help you need, from managing you blood pressure to ordering your repeat prescriptions.
Find out more Digital health – Stay Well Dorset
