The NHS is here for you. To help you get seen in the right place, at the right time by the right healthcare professional you need to use the most appropriate service.
Self Care
Many minor illnesses and injuries such as a sore throat, coughs, colds and small cuts can be treated in your own home with a well-stocked medicine cabinet and plenty of rest.
Pharmacy
Pharmacists are trained medical professionals who can advise you on the best treatment for a range of common conditions. There are lots of pharmacies across Wakefield (find the closest to you here https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-pharmacy/) although some will be limiting the number of people inside to allow social distancing.
NHS111
If you have an urgent medical problem and you’re not sure what to do, you can get help from NHS111. They are available 24/7 either by calling 111 or visiting 111.nhs.uk. They can also book you an appointment with a healthcare professional if you need one.
GP Practice
Your GP practice is still here to help but the way you access it has changed. You should contact the practice by telephone and your clinical team will make sure you get the right support. If you are then given a face-to-face appointment, precautions will be taken to ensure your safety.
Urgent Care
Pontefract Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC)
The UTC is open 24/7, 365 days a year to treat people with non-life-threatening conditions. The service is run by GPs and specialist nurses. Book through NHS 111.
Emergency Department or 999
Pinderfields Hospital Emergency Department should only be used for critical and life-threatening situations.
Also call 999 if you have seriously harmed or injured yourself, find someone who has seriously harmed or injured themselves or you are unable to keep yourself, or other people, safe.
No visitors are permitted to stay with patients over 18 years of age. Patients under 18 years of age may be accompanied by one parent or carer only.
Exceptions may be made for patients who are critically unwell and require life support intervention whilst in the department.
Please remember to help other people by avoiding calling 999 or visiting emergency departments unless it really is necessary.
Remember if you have symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) you must not walk-in to your GP practice, pharmacy or hospital. If you need help in an emergency please tell the 999 call taker if you have coronavirus or symptoms of this, and mention this to paramedics on arrival.