The HSE is urging the public to consider all care options this October Bank Holiday Weekend and is asking people to consider other methods of care including their GPs, pharmacists and Caredoc out of hours services before presenting at Emergency Departments (EDs).
As always, people who do require emergency care are encouraged to attend EDs where they will be prioritised.
When there is a large volume of ED attendances, patients are prioritised in terms of clinical need and wait times for non-urgent care can be lengthy.
Chief Officer of HSE/South East Community Healthcare Grace Rothwell says:
“Patient safety is at the forefront of everything the HSE does.”
People across counties Carlow, Kilkenny, South Tipperary, Waterford and Wexford, however, can help HSE staff at a busy time such as this October Bank Holiday Weekend by remembering when care is needed, to consider all the options for non-emergency care – such as Injury Units, Out of Hours GP (Caredoc) and pharmacies before attending an ED.
Find information on when you should go to the ED
Get advice on a number of illnesses that can be treated at home
The HSE’s My child website website also has lots of information on children’s illnesses.
Our partners in Caredoc out-of-hours GP co-operative are open 24 hours on Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday. Caredoc can be contacted on (0818) 300 365 or (059) 913 8100. See caredoc.ie.
“Many local pharmacies will be open over the weekend including Bank Holiday Monday to help with minor illnesses.
Find out more about the services offered by your local pharmacy
“The HSE wishes everyone a safe and healthy October Bank Holiday Weekend”
Last updated on: 27 / 10 / 2023
