What You Need To Know If You Need Healthcare in Cornwall & The Isles of Scilly This Summer

Surge in Healthcare Demand Due to Increased Visitors and Strike Action

Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly are experiencing a significant increase in healthcare demand this summer. The influx of visitors combined with planned industrial action by junior doctors is placing additional pressure on local health services. The strike is scheduled to start at 7am on 27th June and will last until 7am on 2nd July 2024.

Healthcare Options for Residents and Visitors

If you are on holiday or hosting friends and family in Cornwall, several healthcare options are available:

• Pharmacy First Service: Nearly 100 Cornish pharmacies offer the Pharmacy First service, providing treatment for conditions such as ear infections, rashes, infected insect bites, shingles, sinusitis, urinary tract infections, and sore throats. No appointment is needed, and medications can be provided on the spot. Check online for the nearest pharmacy and their opening hours.
• GP Surgeries: Many local GP surgeries offer extra same-day urgent appointments through primary care hubs.
• Minor Injury Units and Urgent Treatment Centre: Ten minor injury units and an urgent treatment centre are open daily, including weekends and bank holidays. It is advisable to check opening and waiting times online before visiting.

Essential Tips for Visitors In Cornwall

For those visiting Cornwall, here are three key points to remember:

• If you have forgotten to pack your prescription medication, pharmacists can arrange an emergency supply, even if you are far from home. You can also order a prescription online or from your own GP.
• If you are visiting Cornwall and need non-urgent advice, please call your own GP and not the one closest to where you are staying.
• You can also visit NHS 111 online or call 111 for advice, any time day or night.

Healthcare on the Isles of Scilly

The Isles of Scilly attract many visitors annually. Healthcare services available include the local pharmacist, your GP back home, NHS 111, and the minor injury unit. More information on services and opening times can be found on the NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly website.

Emergency Care and Industrial Action

Despite the strike action, it is crucial for patients needing urgent medical care to continue seeking help. For serious or life-threatening cases, the emergency department remains open.

Dr Chris Reid, Chief Medical Officer for NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Integrated Care Board, reassures, “There are lots of options here in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly for getting the healthcare you need. Thank you for being patient with our staff before, during and after the industrial action period and for helping ensure our emergency department is there for people with life or limb threatening illness or injury.”

Appointments During the Strike

GP practices will remain open during the junior doctors’ strike. Patients are advised to attend their GP and dental appointments unless otherwise contacted. The NHS will notify patients if any appointments need to be rescheduled.

Supporting Hospital Discharges

NHS trusts are asking for assistance from families, friends, and neighbours to help patients return home from hospital as soon as they are fit for discharge. Fast access one-off grants are available to support this transition. Speak to a ward nurse for more information.

For further updates and advice, visit the NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly website or follow NHS Cornwall on Facebook.