Wakefield NHS: how to choose the right health service

People in Wakefield are therefore being urged to use the right service for their healthcare needs when they become unwell.

There are a range of different options available across the Wakefield district for people to access support when needed.

Medical advice

Dr Adam Sheppard, clinical chair of NHS Wakefield CCG and local GP, said: “The NHS is still here for you and your family this winter if you need help. However we are experiencing significant demand for services so please help us to help you by seeking medical advice from the most appropriate local service.

“By choosing the right service in Wakefield you will get the right treatment in the most appropriate place far quicker and avoid an unnecessarily long wait to be seen.

“You will also be ensuring that services can operate as effectively as possible and are available for the most critically ill people when they need them.

“If you’re not sure which service to use and it’s not a life-threatening emergency, visit NHS online or call 111. This service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and can be accessed at 111.nhs.uk or by calling 111 for free from mobiles and landlines.”

Minor ailments

For many minor conditions, like coughs, colds, sore throats, tummy troubles, and aches and pains, people can get better with the help of a well-stocked medicine cabinet and the support of their pharmacist.

Wakefield GPs are also still here to help but are working a little differently.

They will usually assess your problem on the phone before arranging a phone or video consultation. They are also still offering face-to-face appointments where necessary.

Please be patient with GP services, as they are experiencing high demand, and if you are seeking a routine check-up or repeat prescription, avoid ringing during peak times.

Urgent help

If you have an urgent medical problem and aren’t sure what to do, you can contact NHS 111 first by phone or online at 111.nhs.uk.

This will make sure you get the right care in the right place and don’t have to wait longer than necessary for treatment. You will speak to trained professionals who will be able to expertly assess the urgency of your condition or illness and may book you an appointment with the relevant service if needed and tell you what to do next.

The Pontefract Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC) treats people with non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries 24/7, 365 days a year and appointment slots can be accessed by calling NHS 111.

They treat conditions such as strains, sprains and suspected broken bones; minor head injuries, minor scalds and burns, Ear and throat infections, abdominal pain and vomiting and diarrhoea.

Meanwhile the King Street Centre in Wakefield is a nurse-led service that can diagnose and treat minor illnesses and injuries and is open between 10am and 10pm, seven days a week. Please telephone first to discuss your issue on 01924 882350.

Emergency support

The Emergency Department at Pinderfields Hospital should only be used in emergencies and critical, life-threatening circumstances such as loss of consciousness, chest pain, breathing difficulties and severe bleeding.