NHS Cornwall offers health advice as critical incident continues

Bob Burgess had his broken ankle treated in a few hours, he says

People in Cornwall are being asked to only attend hospital when their condition is serious, as pressure on the NHS continues.

A 'critical incident' declared for the Royal Cornwall Hospital remains in place.

NHS Cornwall is recommending alternative services for advice and treatment including pharmacies, minor injury units and helplines.

Saltash resident Bob Burgess followed the advice when he had broken his ankle.

He was seen quickly at Bodmin minor injury unit, and said: "We were told it was a three hour wait, but I was seen in less than two hours, X-rayed, put into plaster and then sent on my way home."

NHS Cornwall advises people needing healthcare to seek advice from pharmacists, visit the NHS 111 website or call the 111 phone line, which operates 24 hours a day.

It says that its minor injury units, which are open every day, are best for sprains, strains, cuts that need stiches, arm, foot and leg injuries and broken bones.

People suffering deep cuts, fractures, minor falls and non-life threatening head injuries are advised to visit the urgent treatment centre at West Cornwall Hospital, which is open until midnight each day.