NHS England in Yorkshire and the Humber is encouraging people to choose well and think about ‘Self Care’ as we head into winter.

There are 3.7million visits a year to A&E for self-treatable conditions such as colds, flu and colic. This means staff in the A&E departments have less time for people with life threatening conditions such as severe bleeding or heart attacks who vitally need A&E services.

Self-care is about keeping fit and healthy, understanding when you can look after yourself, when a pharmacist can help and when to get advice from your GP or another health professional.

Paul Twomey, Medical Director for NHS England – North, said: “We want to make people aware that there are many places people can go to get their treatment.

“We are asking that people consider whether there is a service better suited to their needs. Think about using information on NHS choices, calling NHS 111 or visiting your local pharmacist for advice. Do consider these alternatives as well as your GP practice prior to attending A&E for something you may be able to treat more easily elsewhere or at home.

“Pharmacists can help you choose the right treatment for your ailment and can explain the normal duration of symptoms. They can also offer you help to stop smoking, manage your weight, as well as providing flu jabs and blood pressure checks.”

Many pharmacies are open during evenings and at weekends and are easy to get to with many in rural areas, towns and supermarkets and an appointment is not usually necessary.