A new short film explains how you can help NHS Cheshire and Merseyside ensure people get the care they need. Especially during winter when demand is high.

Although the film is set in Whiston Hospital, it is relevant for the 10 A&E departments at hospitals across Sefton and the region.

Ambulance crews delayed

It explains how too many people coming to A&E departments means ambulance crews have to wait with their patients instead of going out on their next 999 call.  And it highlights the importance of being able to discharge patients on time to ensure there are beds for new patients.

Treatment

The film also asks people if they really need to go to A&E or whether they could get treatment from their GP, pharmacy or local urgent treatment centre.

You can watch it here.

NHS 111

You should still call 999 or go to A&E in an emergency when someone is seriously ill or injured and their life is at risk. But if it is not an emergency, you can use 111 online to get assessed and directed to the right place for you. 

The NHS 111 service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can call, go online or use the NHS App to find out:

• Where to get help for your symptoms
• How to find general health information and advice
• Where to get an emergency supply of your prescribed medicine
• How to get a repeat prescription
• How to get an emergency dental appointment

If needed, NHS 111 can also arrange a call back from a nurse, doctor or paramedic or an appointment at the most appropriate local service including local pharmacies, urgent treatment centres, GP practices or A&E.

Information about when to call 999 and when to go to A&E is available via the national NHS website.