People in Galway are being urged to consider their healthcare options over the Christmas period to avoid long waits.
The Saolta Group is reminding people of the Westdoc out-of-hours GP service in order to avoid unnecessary trips to the emergency department.
Tony Canavan, CEO of Saolta University Health Care Group said, “This time of year is always extremely busy in our hospitals but we have additional resources and plans in place to deal with an increase in demand.”
“Our EDs are open 24/7 for emergency care; I’d remind the public that EDs are for people with a serious injury or life-threatening emergency.”
“People who come to the hospital Emergency Department with less urgent or less acute needs will be waiting a long time to be seen, and those people should really consider all other options which the HSE has in place for non-routine healthcare.”
Westdoc can be reached on 0818 360 000 from 6pm on Friday, December 22 to 9am on Wednesday, December 27.
Westdoc will operate from 6pm to 9am from Wednesday, December 27 to 9am Friday, December 29 as normal.
Along with out of hours GP services, the Roscommon Injury Unit is also open from 8am to 8pm every day, including Christmas Day.
“I’m sorry that anyone has to wait a long wait time in our hospitals and know that this is extremely difficult for patients and their families.”
“We are working hard to move patients through our Emergency Departments as quickly as possible and we remain committed to ensuring that patient care and comfort is a priority, even when some waiting is unavoidable,” he added.
Dr Aine Mc Namara, Director of HSE Public Health West / North West added, “We are seeing very high levels of respiratory viruses including flu, COVID-19 and RSV circulating in the community.”
“Infection with these viruses can be serious and can also lead to bacterial infections. While spending time with family and friends, it is important that if you are feeling unwell to avoid meeting those who are vulnerable to protect them from illness.”
“Keeping up to date with your vaccines is the most important thing you can do to avoid serious flu and COVID-19 illness.”
