Clinicians at the Vale of Leven Hospital have issued advice to tourism businesses to help visitors access the right care, in the right place, when they need it. With thousands of people visiting the area each year, most enjoy their stay without requiring medical attention.
However, staff at the Vale say knowing how to access healthcare can help visitors and local residents receive the support they need quickly and appropriately when illness or injury strikes. Hotels, B&Bs, holiday parks and other tourism operators are being provided with information on local healthcare services and the best ways to access care if a guest becomes ill or injured during their stay.
Services highlighted in the initiative
The initiative forms part of wider efforts to help people receive the right care in the right place, while ensuring visitors and local residents understand how to access unscheduled care appropriately. The information highlights the range of services available locally, including the Minor Injuries Unit and GP Out of Hours Service at the Vale, while reminding people that these services should always be accessed through NHS 24 by calling 111.
Visitors and local residents are also being reminded to think carefully about how they access unscheduled care, helping to ensure everyone receives the support they need in the most appropriate setting. Community pharmacies, GP practices, dentists and opticians can provide expert advice and treatment for many common conditions.
Guidance for urgent conditions
“If a condition is urgent, or if it is out of hours, people should contact NHS 24 by calling 111,” the advice states. “A trained clinician will assess their needs and direct them to the most appropriate service.”
Rebecca Reid, Interim Director of NHSGGC’s Clyde Sector, said: “Thousands of people visit this area every year and we want them to feel confident they can access the right healthcare if they need it.
“Tourism businesses are often among the first places visitors turn to when they need help or advice.
“By providing businesses with clear information about local healthcare services, we’re helping visitors access the right care quickly, safely and appropriately.
“The Vale provides important unscheduled care services for the local area, including a Minor Injuries Unit and GP Out of Hours Service.
“These services should always be accessed through NHS 24 by calling 111.
“Whether someone is visiting the area or lives locally, our message is simple.
“Think carefully about how you access care.
“If your condition is urgent, or if it’s out of hours, you should contact NHS 24 by calling 111.
“A trained clinician will assess your needs and direct you to the most appropriate service.”
Details for tourism operators
The information provided to tourism operators includes guidance on the types of injuries that can be treated by the Minor Injuries Unit, services which may be more appropriate for other conditions, and advice on when people should call 999 or attend an Emergency Department in the event of a serious illness or injury.
