Hospital services will remain available throughout New Year’s Day, including Emergency Departments at Doncaster Royal Infirmary and Bassetlaw Hospital, which are open 24 hours a day for people with serious or life-threatening conditions.
However, for less urgent health concerns, residents are being asked to consider alternative services that may be more suitable and quicker to access.
Dr Nick Mallaband, Acting Executive Medical Director at DBTH, said: “New Year’s Eve is traditionally a very busy time for the NHS, and we often see a rise in alcohol-related injuries and accidents that could be avoided. We want people to enjoy celebrating, but simple steps such as drinking in moderation, pacing yourself, staying hydrated and looking out for friends can help keep everyone safe and out of hospital.
“Planning ahead, knowing where to go for advice, and using the right service for your needs also helps ensure emergency care is available for those who truly need it.”
For health concerns that are not urgent, NHS 111 is available 24 hours a day online or by calling 111, offering advice and directing people to the most appropriate local service. Many community pharmacies will also be open over the New Year period, often with reduced hours, and can help with minor illnesses such as coughs, colds, sore throats, stomach upsets and rashes.
For sprains, cuts, grazes, minor burns and simple fractures, the Mexborough Montagu Minor Injuries Unit is open every day from 9am to 9pm, except Christmas Day. Support for common eye problems, including red or irritated eyes, eyelid inflammation or foreign bodies in the eye, is also available through the Minor Eye Conditions Service.
Residents are also encouraged to check they have enough of any regular medications to cover the Bank Holiday period and to stock up on basic household health essentials such as pain relief and first aid supplies. Making arrangements for a safe journey home, avoiding unnecessary risks, and checking in on friends and family can all help ensure celebrations end safely.
Some outpatient clinics and non-urgent services may be closed on New Year’s Day. Patients with scheduled appointments should attend as normal unless they have been contacted directly to say otherwise. Appointments and prescriptions can be viewed and managed using the NHS App.
For more information about local services and staying well this New Year, visit www.dbth.nhs.uk.