Shropshire NHS trust's campaign aims to reduce winter pressures

People in Shropshire are being urged to try going to the pharmacist before calling their GP

A campaign to reduce pressures on NHS services this winter has been launched.

Think Which Service urges people across Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin that when there's no emergency to reconsider where they go when feeling unwell.

The local pharmacy, Minor Injury Unit (MIU) or NHS 111 are being highlighted as a first option before patients contact a GP, go to A&E or call 999.

"We have some of the most stretched A&E departments in the country," said Alison Bussey.

Ms Bussey, chief nursing officer at NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin, added: "Of course, if it is an emergency then you should absolutely head to A&E or dial 999 but, unfortunately, we are seeing a high number of people turning up with illnesses or injuries that could be treated in a minor injury unit, by a pharmacist or, in some cases, with self-care at home."

Dr Melanie Thompson, a GP at Woodside Medical Practice in Telford, said the winter season always leads to greater pressure on services.

"Naturally, the winter months are when we see spikes in colds, flu and even sickness bugs," she said.

"For some, an automatic reaction when feeling unwell would be to book an appointment with their GP; however, many people don't realise that their local community pharmacists are highly qualified and knowledgeable and can offer the same or very similar advice and treatment."