Which NHS service should I use?

We are asking people to do all they can to support us at this busy time by considering all local healthcare options.

If you are unwell or injured, it’s important to choose the right service to make sure you get the best treatment as quickly as possible.

Please prepare for long wait times in our Emergency Department and Urgent Treatment Centre. We treat patients in order of clinical need, so if there are patients with more critical or life-threatening conditions, you will be waiting longer.

Pharmacies

Local pharmacies can offer expert advice and over-the-counter medicine for a range of minor ailments such as colds, sore throats, stings and allergies.

Many pharmacies also have a prescribing pharmacist who can prescribe prescription medicines and many pharmacies are open evenings or weekends.

To find your nearest pharmacy with a prescribing pharmacist or which has extended opening hours, visit https://bsw.icb.nhs.uk/your-health/which-nhs-service-should-i-use/pharmacies/.

Please phone the pharmacy before visiting to check there is a prescribing pharmacist available.

Your local GP

GP services are the best option for long-term conditions.

If your child is unwell and needs urgent care, you can ask to be directed to a Children's Clinic in Swindon for under 18s.

Minor Injuries Units

There are two minor injury units a short drive from Swindon open to walk-in patients over the age of one with minor injuries.

Opening times vary, so please contact the Minor Injuries Unit before visiting.

Chippenham Minor Injury Unit https://wiltshirehealthandcare.nhs.uk/services/minor-injury-unit/

Cirencester Minor Injury Unit https://www.ghc.nhs.uk/our-teams-and-services/miius/

NHS 111

If you are not sure what to do, or you think you need medical help right now, NHS 111 can tell you what to do next. Visit 111.nhs.uk/ or phone 111.

Emergency care

In an emergency, do not hesitate to phone 999 or visit the urgent and emergency care services at the Great Western Hospital.

Leaving hospital

There are lots of things that families, friends and carers can do to support us when patients are well enough to leave hospital.

Visit www.gwh.nhs.uk/patients-and-visitors/leaving-hospital/ to find out more.

Thank you

A huge thank you to our incredible staff working across the Great Western Hospital and in the Swindon community at this busy time.