Winter in 2021-22 is going to be one of the hardest ever for the NHS. The pandemic meant some extraordinary pressures but this year we not only face the COVID-19 pandemic continuing but also all the other illnesses that spread more easily as people are out socialising again.
Combined with catching up with delayed appointments from during the pandemic lockdowns it’s no surprise that health services are at their limit.
We want to make sure everyone has access to the best quality health care available at a time they need it. However due to pressures we are not able to promise you won’t have to wait slightly longer for appointments. For example A&E at Blackpool Teaching Hospitals will never turn someone with an emergency medical need away but they are recording some times when there are over 100 people in their waiting room with waits of up to eight hours or more for those who are less serious than others.
The best thing for anyone to do is avoid becoming unwell and, if you do need medical help, using the right service for your need means you will be seen quicker and emergency services are left for real emergencies.
Here are some of the main things you need to do this winter:
1 - Self care!
You can find out more on our self care page.
2 - Get vaccinated
There are two essential vaccines you need this winter: COVID-19 and Flu
Find out more about COVID-19 vaccination here
Find out more about FLU here
3 - Use the right service
Latest winter news
- Ask Your Pharmacist Week aims to highlight the range of services available in pharmacies
- Keep Well by Keeping Warm in Winter
- Simple home adaptations to help prevent a fall
- Parents and carers in Lancashire and South Cumbria advised to be aware of the signs of respiratory illnesses and when to get help