Two in three people (65%) who self-presented at Accident and Emergency (A&E) did not need to be there, according to the latest figures from NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC).
Of the 51,896 individuals who self-presented at A&E across the health board in a six-month period, 33,469 had injuries or illnesses that could have been treated elsewhere.
A self-presentation occurs when someone attends an A&E or Minor Injuries Unit without prior clinical consultation, such as with a GP or NHS24 (via 111). This winter, NHSGGC is appealing to the public for help in changing this trend.
Dr Claire Harrow, Deputy Medical Director for Acute Services, stated: “More than 36,000 people – that’s nearly 100 every single day – are self-presenting to A&E when they could be treated more quickly and appropriately elsewhere.
“We need to spread awareness that there are quicker and easier paths to care than A&E for people with minor illnesses and injuries. This is to benefit them but also importantly, to minimise potential delays to anyone attending with a more serious illness.”
A&E is intended for life-threatening conditions and the most serious injuries. In such cases, people should call 999 or go to A&E immediately. NHSGGC has identified the top five minor injuries that people attended A&E with, which could have been treated elsewhere. These include ankle sprains or strains, lower back pain, open finger wounds, wrist injuries, and strained feet.
The top five minor illness resulting in attendance at A&E between January and June were viral infections, acute upper respiratory infections, diarrhoea and gastroenteritis, urinary tract infections (UTI), and acute tonsillitis.
Claire continued: “Unless you have a serious injury or your condition is life-threatening, A&E is not the best place to go. If you don’t need to be there, you will be redirected elsewhere.
“There are quicker ways for you to access the care you need if you’re feeling unwell or have a minor injury, and they avoid sitting in an A&E waiting room. You should phone 111 for advice after which you will be advised on the best care for you at that moment. This includes a call from a GP, an appointment at one of our virtual A&E, Minor Injuries Units, Emergency Dental appointments, or a GP Out of Hours appointment.”
To remind people of the steps to get the care they need, NHSGGC is asking people to follow its ABC model:
Accessing the right care is as easy as ABC:
- Ask yourself: Do I need to go out? For information on keeping yourself well and treating minor illnesses and injuries from home, go to NHS Inform or download the NHS24 app.
- Be aware: There is help for many conditions right on your doorstep. Your local GP, pharmacy, dentist, or optician offers a range of services.
- Call 111: If it’s urgent, or you’re not sure, call NHS 24 on 111. They’ll make sure you get the help you need.
Unless it’s an emergency, think ABC before going to A&E.
