Wairarapa Hospital under siege

People with minor injuries and illness are being warned to see their GP as Wairarapa Hospital battles through sickness that is claiming doctors and nurses at the hospital. PHOTO DIGITALLY ALTERED

Sickness is felling doctors and nurses at Wairarapa Hospital and warnings have been sounded that people with minor injuries or illness must see their GPs or endure long waits at the emergency department.

Interim director Wairarapa Health Services Jill Stringer said the hospital was under pressure from the usual seasonal illnesses and injuries.

"Staff are working around the clock to provide high-quality care to our patients, however patient volumes mean people with non-urgent injuries and illnesses are waiting longer to be seen in our Emergency Department.

"Our doctors and nurses have also been unwell," said Ms Stringer.

"Chest infections and other illnesses are more common in cold weather. There's also an increase in sprained and strained ankles and muscles with winter sports.

"All of these conditions can be treated by your GP, and if you go to them early you can avoid getting sicker and ending up in hospital."

GPs and practice nurses can treat a range of health problems from stomach bugs, asthma attacks and chest infections to stitching cuts, treating ankle sprains and diagnosing rashes, she said.

"A quick call to Healthline can also save time and ensure you get the right care at the right place first time."

Healthline (0800 611 116) is operated 24 hours a day by registered nurses and provides free health advice.

An "on call" GP is also available overnight and can be contacted by calling a GP practice.

There is the Healthline symptom checker at http://www.healthline.com/ which has advice on when to see your GP, and also has a phone app and translator service.

Since July 1, children under 13 can go to their GP and local after hours clinics for free. Their prescriptions are also free.

Ms Stringer was urging people going to the hospital's Emergency Department to be patient while waiting to be seen.

"Even if there aren't many people in the waiting room, it doesn't mean we aren't busy," she said.

"Patients often arrive by ambulance at the side of the hospital and need urgent treatment.

"Our staff are committed to seeing people as soon as they can, however they operate on a 'who's worst is seen first' basis."

Ms Stringer said people should still call 111 for an ambulance if they have a medical emergency, such as trouble breathing or serious head and chest pain.