October Bank Holiday Weekend advise for Mayo residents from the HSE
HSE West and North West is advising people in Mayo to be aware of their healthcare options this October Bank Holiday weekend.
Residents are urged to stay safe on the roads, slow down, and take care, as emergency departments (ED) are expected to be busy with long wait times.
For breaks, sprains, and minor wounds, HSE injury units are available, while out-of-hours GP services operate throughout the weekend, though appointments must be booked in advance.
Local pharmacies can provide expert advice on a wide range of conditions, and everyone is encouraged to stay up to date with flu and COVID-19 vaccines.
The warning comes amid reports that Mayo University Hospital (MUH) has been under extreme pressure, with the Minister for Health confirming the hospital has been at or above the unsafe threshold for 80.2% of days this year, the highest level in the country.
Its ED is also experiencing the worst congestion among Ireland’s 17 Model Three hospitals.
Mary Warde, HSE healthcare manager for Mayo, said EDs are busier around bank holiday weekends, but said that plans are in place to manage patient flow and minimise delays.
She reminded residents that many common illnesses can be treated at home, but urgent out-of-hours GP appointments are available through Westdoc by appointment.
The Roscommon injury unit is open daily from 8am to 8pm for minor injuries, with no appointment needed.
Ms Warde also urged people to take care of their mental as well as physical health.
In serious emergencies, residents are advised to attend the ED or call 999/112.
Ms Warde said: “Unfortunately our EDs tend to be busier at holiday weekends than at other times of the year but we have plans in place to manage high attendances. We have senior clinical decision makers rostered throughout the weekend and we are doing everything we can to improve the flow of patients through the ED to minimise delays for patients.
“Many common illnesses can be treated at home but if you need an urgent GP appointment over the weekend, the out of hours GP service in this region is called Westdoc. The service is open all weekend but you do need to make an appointment in advance.
“Your local pharmacy can also offer expert advice on a wide range of common illnesses and complaints. At this time of year we expect to see an increase in flu and COVID-19, please ensure you are up to date with your vaccines to reduce your risk of serious respiratory illness this winter.
“Roscommon injury unit is open from 8am to 8pm every day of the year for breaks, sprains and burns. They can help with many of the injuries people go to the emergency department for including x-rays. You do not need an appointment to attend an injury unit.
“In an emergency, it’s really important that you do not delay and that you either come to the ED, or dial 999/112. Please stay safe and look after your mental health as well as your physical health this long weekend.”
This article has been funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.