More than 3,500 people were treated in local EDs over the Christmas-New Year period, including 647 arriving by ambulance … and hospital Emergency Departments (EDs) didn’t miss a beat with their delivery of care.
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Mid North Coast Local Health District Chief Executive Stewart Dowrick said the smooth running of all of our public hospitals during this peak time is a great credit to our staff.
“Our Emergency Departments are doing a remarkable job in managing the busy holiday period when our population swells with thousands of extra visitors to the area,” Mr Dowrick said.
The results are in line with recent findings from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare which revealed last month that NSW is the only jurisdiction to meet the target benchmark for all triage categories.
NSW also leads with the shortest median waiting time for patients starting clinical care in the ED at just 15 minutes, compared to 46 minutes in the ACT.
To reduce unnecessary burdens on busy EDs, people who are feeling unwell are reminded that where the matter is not of a serious or life-threatening nature, they should see their local GP or medical centre.
“For any advice or concerns, members of the community are reminded that Healthdirect is always able to assist with medical advice.”
Mr Dowrick said it was also important to ensure medications and prescriptions are in order before heading off on holidays, and urged families to keep the 24-hour Healthdirect helpline in their phones.
“In the case of a health emergency, people should call Triple Zero (000) but for other health concerns Healthdirect is an excellent source of assistance.
“By calling the Healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222, anyone can receive health advice from registered nurses on the line, at any time of day or night,” he said.
Everyone is encouraged to take simple measures and precautions to ensure a happy and healthy holiday season, by:
· Moderating the consumption of alcohol during gatherings and celebrations;
· Visiting their GP before going away and ensuring they have an adequate supply of prescription medications;
· Taking additional care on the roads and when participating in outdoor recreational activities;
· Keeping a close eye on elderly relatives with impaired mobility in unfamiliar surroundings;
· Maintaining regular contact with the socially isolated;
· Taking precautions on very hot days, such as maintaining hydration, minimising physical activity, wearing light clothing, avoiding alcohol, and staying indoors between 11am and 5pm, ideally in air conditioning, and
· Supervising and keeping a watchful eye on children, particularly around water.
