Think you know where to go for health and care this winter? Know the facts 

This autumn and winter, the Coventry and Warwickshire Integrated Care System (ICS) “Here For You This Winter” campaign, in collaboration with Warwickshire County Council and other health partners, is helping local people separate fact from fiction when it comes to accessing care. From pharmacies and GP practices to NHS 111, Urgent Treatment Centres and Emergency Departments, we’re tackling some of the common myths about what different services can and can’t provide, so you can feel more confident about choosing the right care when you need it. 

Think you know where to go? Test the facts 

You might have heard some of these before: 

• “A&E is always the quickest place to go.” 
  Wrong. Emergency Departments are for serious and life-threatening illnesses and injuries. For other urgent health concerns, another service may be more appropriate and could help you get the care you need more quickly. 
• “I should wait until I’m really unwell before calling NHS 111.” 
  Wrong. NHS 111 can provide advice when you need urgent medical help and aren't sure which service to use. It can assess your needs and direct you to the most appropriate care. 
• “I can only get medicines from my usual pharmacy.” 
  Wrong. Pharmacies can provide advice and treatment for a range of common illnesses and may be able to provide medicines for certain conditions without you needing to see a GP. 
• “I have to go to A&E for a dental emergency.” 
  Wrong. Emergency dental services are available to provide advice and support for urgent dental problems. 

These are just some of the myths partners will be challenging through the campaign, using information from trusted health and care professionals to explain the facts and help people understand what different services are there for. 

Choosing the right care starts with knowing your options 

Knowing which service to use isn't always straightforward, particularly when you're unwell or worried about your symptoms. But choosing the right service can help you get the support you need while making sure Emergency Departments are available for people who need urgent, life-saving treatment. 

Dr Will Taylor, Chief Medical Officer for NHS Coventry and Warwickshire Integrated Care Board, said:

“When you or someone you care about is unwell, it can be difficult to know where to turn, particularly during the busy autumn and winter months. 

 

“This year, our campaign is about helping people know the facts about the different health and care services available across Coventry and Warwickshire and challenging some of the common myths and misunderstandings that can make it harder to know where to go. 

 

“Whether it's speaking to your local pharmacist, contacting your GP, using NHS 111 or attending an Urgent Treatment Centre, there are many services available to support you. Choosing the right service for your needs means you can access appropriate care while helping ensure our Emergency Departments are available for those who need them most. 

 

“Our health and care partners are working together to support local people throughout the winter, and we want everyone to know that we’re here for you.” 

Cllr Anne-Marie Sonko, Warwickshire County Council’s portfolio holder for Adult Social Care and Health added:  

“You might think there’s not much you can do to stay warm and well during winter and avoid illnesses, but that’s a myth. 

 

“Live well in Warwickshire this winter – keep your home warm and dress in layers. Make sure you’re stocked up with medication and groceries and enjoy regular hot meals and drinks.  

 

“For those who need extra protection, it’s also important to check you’re up to date with any recommended vaccinations.  

 

“This winter, along with our partners, we’re encouraging everyone to take note of the services that are there to help them stay well. There are also lots of things residents can do themselves to keep warm, stay active, stay connected, and stay safe.” 

Know which service can help 

• Self Care 
  Treat aches and pains, coughs and colds at home. Stock up on medicines such as paracetamol and ibuprofen that can be bought over-the-counter.  
  You can also find support in your local community. Community groups and your local council offer a range of services to help people stay warm, safe and connected throughout the winter, including warm hubs, financial and energy advice, wellbeing support and check-ins for vulnerable residents, as well as emergency and homelessness support. 
• Your local pharmacy 
  Pharmacists can offer advice and treatment for many common illnesses and minor health concerns. 
• Your GP practice 
  Your GP can help with ongoing or more complex health concerns, persistent symptoms and conditions that need medical assessment or follow-up. 
• NHS 111 
  If you need urgent medical advice or aren't sure which service is right for you, NHS 111 can assess your needs and direct you to the most appropriate care. 
• Urgent Treatment Centres 
  Urgent Treatment Centres provide care for urgent, but not life-threatening, illnesses and injuries. 
• Dental Treatment  
  Your local dental practice is available for dental care and for urgent or out-of-hours care, call NHS 111.  
• Mental Health  
  If you’re worried about your mental health or are experiencing a mental health crisis, call Wellbeing for Warwickshire on 0800 616171 Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm or call 111 and select option 2.  
• 999 and Emergency Departments 
  Call 999 or attend an Emergency Department for serious or life-threatening emergencies. 

And it's not just about knowing where to go, there are things we can all do to stay well and prepare for winter too. 

Making sure you have essential medicines at home, keeping warm, eating well and staying hydrated can all help you look after yourself during the colder months. If you're eligible for a flu vaccination, getting vaccinated can also help protect you and those around you. It's also important to look out for family, friends and neighbours who may need some extra support during winter. 

Throughout the autumn and winter, we'll be sharing more myth-busting information, practical advice and details of local health and care services across Coventry and Warwickshire. 

For more information about choosing the right service, and for the facts to common myths about your health and care, visit www.happyhealthylives.uk/services-programmes/think-which-service/. 

For general winter wellness advice, visit www.warwickshire.gov.uk/winterwellness.