Healthcare Advice for Holidaymakers in Cornwall: Know Where to Go

Stay Safe This Half Term In Cornwall with These Tips

As half term kicks off and families flock to Cornwall for a break, the NHS is urging both residents and visitors to be mindful about their healthcare needs. From minor ailments to urgent medical issues, knowing where to go can make all the difference in getting the right care efficiently.

Quick Tips for Visitors

1. Emergency Prescriptions: If you’ve forgotten your medication, don’t worry. Cornish pharmacists can provide emergency supplies, even if you’re far from home. Prescriptions can also be ordered online for convenience.
2. Non-Urgent Advice: For non-urgent medical advice, it’s best to contact your own GP rather than a local one. NHS 111 online or via phone is available around the clock for guidance.
3. Hospital Visits: Before heading to a hospital, check the locations, live opening times, and waiting periods. NHS 111 can also direct you to the most appropriate service for your needs.

Services in Cornwall

Pharmacies: With 96% of Cornish pharmacists able to handle a range of conditions like ear infections, sinusitis, and insect bites, a well-stocked first-aid kit might be all you need. Under the Pharmacy First scheme, pharmacists can even prescribe antibiotics and antivirals for specific conditions without a GP visit.

Minor Injury Units and Urgent Treatment Centre: Cornwall boasts ten minor injury units and an urgent treatment centre at West Cornwall Hospital in Penzance, open daily from 8 am to midnight. These facilities are ideal for non-life-threatening conditions like simple fractures, minor burns, and cuts requiring stitches.

Pharmacy First Scheme: Quick and Convenient Care

Under the Pharmacy First scheme, launched earlier this year, community pharmacists in Cornwall can supply prescription-only medicines, including antibiotics and antivirals, without the need for a GP visit. This initiative covers seven common health conditions, making it easier for people to access the care they need quickly and efficiently.

Conditions Covered by Pharmacy First:

• Sinusitis: Available for individuals aged 12 and over.
• Earache: Available for children and adolescents aged 1 to 17.
• Infected Insect Bite: Treatment available for all ages.
• Impetigo: A common skin infection that can be treated by pharmacists.
• Shingles: Available for individuals aged 18 and over.
• Uncomplicated Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Available for women aged 16 to 64.

If you are exempt from prescription charges, such as being under 16, over 60, or holding a prescription prepayment certificate, you will not have to pay for the medicines prescribed under this scheme.

For more information on the Pharmacy First conditions, local pharmacy locations, and opening times, visit the NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly website.

Healthcare on the Isles of Scilly

The Isles of Scilly, a popular tourist destination, offers healthcare services including local pharmacies, NHS 111, and a minor injury unit. Visitors should utilise these resources or contact their GP back home for non-urgent issues.

Mental Health Support

For those facing mental health challenges, Cornwall’s 24/7 mental health helpline is available at 0800 038 5300. Additional support services can be found on the NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly website. There is information on the NHS website on where to find services and opening times on the Isles of Scilly

When to Call 999

Only call 999 or visit the emergency department for life-threatening emergencies such as severe bleeding, chest pain, difficulty breathing, stroke, or loss of consciousness.

By following these guidelines, residents and visitors can ensure they get the care they need while helping keep emergency services available for the most critical cases. For more information on local services, visit the NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly website.