Public urged to get care when they need it

Sir Simon Stevens has launched a major new drive to persuade the public to seek the urgent care and treatment they need.

The head of NHS England has warned delays in getting treatment due to coronavirus fears pose a long term risk to people’s health. Four in ten people are currently too concerned about being a burden on the NHS to seek help from their GP. Stevens has stressed that the NHS is still there for patients without coronavirus who need urgent and emergency services for stroke, heart attack, and other killer conditions.

Attendances at Accident and Emergency departments are so far on course to be one million lower this April than last. A number of health bodies, including the British Heart Foundation and Stroke Association, have expressed concerns that people are risking their long-term health, and their lives, by delaying getting the help they need.

Therefore, a new public information campaign – including digital adverts, posters and social media featuring NHS staff – will be rolled out next week to persuade people to contact their GP or the 111 service if they have urgent care needs – or 999 in emergencies – and to attend hospital if they are told they should.

Stevens said: “While NHS staff have pulled out all the stops to deal with coronavirus they have also worked hard to ensure that patients who don’t have COVID-19 can safely access essential services. So whether you or loved one have the symptoms of a heart attack or stroke, are a parent worried about their child or have concerns about conditions such as cancer you should seek help in the way you always would. Ignoring problems can have serious consequences – now or in the future.”