With many people in popular hot spots like Wānaka and Queenstown over the summer holidays, Southern Primary Health Organisation (PHO) WellSouth is urging people to make sure they find the right care.

WellSouth clinical director Carol Atmore said unexpected accidents and illnesses can happen and people often just look for the nearest hospital to get help.

“However, this is often not the right care they need, and if you aren’t sure, we are urging people to talk to a health professional before they head to hospital,” she said.

“Some of our rural hospitals don’t have an emergency department and if they do, they have limited capacity.”

Hato Hane St John added that ‘111’ should only be used if someone has sustained a serious injury or needs immediate medical attention.

 “If your call isn’t life threatening, there may be a delay in getting an ambulance to you,” St John deputy chief executive Dr Damian Tomic said.

“Help each other to prevent incidents that are easily avoidable – like those which may involve alcohol, such as falls and motor vehicle crashes. Agree on a sober driver before you start drinking, make sure you stay hydrated and look out for your friends.”

Carol said the best place to start is with phone advice.

If it’s an emergency, call 111, but in other instances, it may be best to call HealthLine, which is available 24 hours a day on 0800 611 116 and can “help work out what will suit your needs best,” she said.

"There are also a range of national telehealth providers available out of hours, such as Ka Ora, where people can be triaged by talking to a clinician (nurse, nurse practitioner, general practitioner), often getting the help they need without having to visit a further healthcare provider.

Another option is to check in with a local pharmacy or general practice, depending on the time of day. 

“A pharmacist, urgent dentist or physiotherapist may be able to help, and general practices across the district are available during usual business hours, and some have after hours services too.”

“Sometimes, it’s not physical and people just need to talk to someone. There’s a 24/7 helpline called ‘Need to talk?’ on 1737,” she added.

“By finding the right care at the right time, visitors will have a better experience and it spreads the load of pressure on primary and secondary services, Dr Atmore says.

The following are Hato Hone St John’s tips for staying safe this summer: 

• If you’re on a road based trip, familiarise yourself with your location before you set off. Find out in advance where the closest hospital or medical centre is to your location, and know your exact address in case you need to call for help. 
• Take some first aid supplies, and ensure you pack your prescription medicines. You can also download the free St John CPR app in the App Store. 
• Remember to keep batteries from gifts away from children to avoid swallowing. The battery can become lodged in the oesophagus with dangerous results. See our choking first aid advice here.
• Stay hydrated - especially when in the sun and/or when drinking alcohol, and ensure whānau and friends are doing the same.

PHOTO: St John