Free health advice available over Easter

Free health advice available over Easter – Healthline 0800 611 116

Thursday 21 April 2011

Over-indulging in chocolate is probably the biggest health hazard most of us will face over Easter but, as sure as eggs, someone will develop a tummy bug, step on a rusty nail or bounce off a trampoline.

Illnesses and accidents are a fact of life and during holiday breaks they can happen miles from help or after-hours when medical centres are closed.

Thankfully, you’re not alone. You can turn to the Ministry of Health’s national Healthline service. Wherever you are in the country, 24 hours a day, if there’s telephone coverage, help is at hand.

Healthline Senior Nurse Advisor Janet Harp says inquiries about coughs and colds are common over Easter, along with the usual ailments and mishaps.

Healthline – 0800 611 116 – is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by registered nurses who can advise you on the best thing to do and how urgently you should do it.

Depending on your health issue, this could be advice to see your GP or visit the emergency department immediately, or to see your GP within 24 hours. Up to 40 percent of callers are given information to safely manage the condition themselves at home, including things to try, and advice on what to watch out for. A small percentage of callers are put through to 111 or have an ambulance called for them.

Heathline nurses can also direct you to the nearest GP clinic or after-hours chemist. Calls to Healthline are free, including from mobile phones.

For free confidential health advice from a registered nurse these holidays, phone Healthline on 0800 611 116.

ENDS

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