Choose Well This Holiday Period.

20 December 2018

Hawke’s Bay people and visitors are encouraged to Choose Well for health care this Christmas/New Year holiday period.

Hawke’s Bay District Health Board Chief Medical and Dental Officer – Hospital, Dr John Gommans stressed the importance for people to ensure their medications were up-to-date in advance of public holidays and to choose the right place for after hours health care.

“Getting sick or injured won’t be on anyone’s holiday plans, but getting the right help from the right place will help people get back on their feet sooner and leave hospital emergency departments for people requiring emergency or life-threatening care,” said Dr Gommans.

Chief Medical Officer Primary Care Dr Mark Peterson says if anyone needs non-urgent health care to phone their own GP in the first instance where they will be directed to an after hours clinic if necessary.

“Equally, it’s also really important at this busy time of year to remember to update prescribed medications if running low and put your health first.”

Dr Peterson said if people were unsure of where to go or whether they needed to see a doctor, they could also seek advice from a pharmacist or phone Healthline for free 24/7 on 0800 611 116 to speak with a registered nurse.

“This time of year is also a reminder to check on elderly neighbours and loved ones, particularly if the weather is hot, to ensure they are feeling well and are keeping hydrated.”

A list of pharmacies and clinics that will be open during the Christmas and New Year holiday period region-wide can be found on the Our Health website at www.ourhealth.co.nz.

-ENDS-

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