Only use A&E / Emergency Department for serious unexpected illness or injury
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Did you know that one in three patients who use the A&E Department in Morriston Hospital and the Emergency Department in the Princess of Wales Hospital don't actually need emergency care? This just adds to queues and makes waiting times longer for everyone. It also doesn't make the best use of emergency staff time or skills.
So if you have a non-urgent condition, please see your pharmacist or GP for help, or telephone NHS Direct Wales on 0845 4647.
Did you know your pharmacist offers many more services than simply dispensing medicines? See: Make the most of your Community Pharmacist
ABM GP Out of Hours Service
The ABM GP Out of Hours Service operates from 6.30pm to 8am on weekdays, and all day on weekends and bank holidays. From 4th July 2011, there is one number across Swansea, Neath Port Talbot and Bridgend to access this service: 0330 123 9180 (charged at local rates)
If you need to see a GP urgently during these times, and cannot wait until your own surgery opens, call 0330 123 9180. You will be answered by a trained call handler who will take some details and then a GP will call you back to assess the patient's needs. The patient will be offered self-help advice, or an appointment at one of the three ABM primary care centres in Morriston, Neath Port Talbot and the Princess of Wales hospitals. Sometimes, if the GP thinks it is necessary, a home visit may be arranged.
If you have a minor injury
If you live in swansea, for a minor injury, use the Minor Injury Unit at Singleton Hospital, which is open between 8am and 8pm every day. (After 8pm, use A&E in Morriston Hospital). If you live in Neath Port Talbot or Bridgend, for a minor injury, use the Local Accident Centre at Neath Port Talbot Hospital.
Confused? Need help? 'Choose Well' with this guide
Self care – for the treatment of minor illnesses, by combining a well stocked medicine cabinet with plenty of rest.
NHS Direct Wales – for absolutely any health questions, around the clock, and to find local services at the click of a button.
Chemists / Pharmacists - for advice on common illnesses and the best medicines to treat them.
GPs – for medical advice, examinations and prescriptions for illnesses you just can’t shake off.
Minor Injury Units – for treatment of minor illnesses or injuries without the need for an appointment.
Emergency Department (A&E) or 999 – for critical or life-threatening situations.