Winter is always a busy time for the NHS, but with 2023 seeing health and social care under significant pressure throughout, your local NHS is asking residents to do what they can to protect services and look after themselves. 

Over the past few weeks, some of our hospitals and services have already had to take serious measures to cope with the number of patients they are seeing come forward and protect levels of patient safety. This has at times meant that patients have had to wait longer than we would like to access care or if less urgent, redirected to different services. We would like to thank our communities for their patience and our staff for their dedication and hard work throughout.

Health and social care staff are working together to minimise risk and make it clear how our communities can continue to access services safely and appropriately. We know that winter is only just beginning and industrial action is planned over the coming weeks, so while we will be here when you need us, anything you can do to help will make a real difference.

While we expect there to be further disruption during industrial action, it’s important that if you have an appointment but haven’t heard otherwise from us, please continue to attend as planned. If we need to reschedule appointments, we will contact you. 

Patients should not put off seeking urgent or emergency care, as Emergency Departments will continue to provide lifesaving care when needed. However, patients should only call 999 or attend the Emergency Department if it is a medical or mental health emergency. Contact NHS 111 Online, visit your local pharmacy or contact your GP Practice if you need advice or help that isn’t life-threatening.

We expect that our Emergency Departments will remain busy during industrial action and over Christmas. People who attend and do not need to be seen at an Emergency Department, will be redirected to another more appropriate setting for your needs.

All our teams are working hard to care for you and while we understand how concerning the current situation may be, please remember to show our staff the same respect that we would expect them to show you.

Thank you for your ongoing support,

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Chief Nursing Officers and Chief Medical Officers

 

 Top tips for helping your local NHS Services:

  • Please contact your GP Practice as usual during their regular opening hours.
  • You can visit NHS 111 Online or call 111 if:
    • You need medical help fast, but it's not a 999 emergency
    • You don't know who to call for medical help or you don't have a GP to call
    • You think you need to go to the Emergency Department or another service such as an Urgent Treatment Centre
    • You require health information or reassurance about what to do next.
    • You have an urgent mental health concern and don’t know where to turn.
  • For symptoms and advice if you have a child unwell at home, visit the Healthier Together website or download the app.
  • Stay safe and look out for vulnerable family and friends – if a friend or loved one has been discharged recently, check in if they need help with food shopping or collecting medication.
  • Keep appointments unless you are contacted by the NHS with alternative arrangements.