Hawke’s Bay people are being encouraged to visit their doctor or health professional prior to the public holiday period to update medical prescriptions or get a check-up if they’re experiencing the onset of illness.
Hawke’s Bay District Health Board Chief Medical and Dental Officer – Hospital, Dr John Gommans, said with Easter weekend coinciding with school holidays and also Anzac Day, it was important simple steps were taken to ensure medical needs were ticked off the ‘to do’ list and contingency plans were in place.
“We’d like people to plan for their health so that they can make the most of the upcoming holidays and enjoy themselves,” said Dr Gommans.
“If someone is feeling unwell, please go and see your GP in advance of the long weekend and similarly, if you take medication regularly, make sure you have enough supplies to get you through,” he said.
Dr Gommans said it was also important to remind people the hospital’s emergency department was for emergencies only and those seeking non-urgent care during the long weekend could experience lengthy wait times.
“We ask that people Choose Well to get the right care from the right place and would like to give a friendly reminder that an emergency department is for emergencies only.”
Chief Medical Officer of Primary Care, Dr Mark Peterson, said there were various healthcare options available to people over the long weekend.
Locals can visit the Our Health website at www.ourhealth.co.nz for an updated list of pharmacies and clinics that will be open over Easter. People could also call Healthline 24/7 for free advice on 0800 611 116.
Post your comment
Comments
No one has commented on this page yet.