Christchurch Hospital’s Emergency Department is currently experiencing high demand and is very busy.
A spokesperson said “unless it’s an emergency, please call Healthline on 0800 611 116 for free health advice 24/7 or visit one of the websites below for health information and guidance.”
The urgent warning was release on Monday evening at 5PM.
“If you have a medical emergency and you require urgent assistance, please call 111 immediately.
“A medical emergency includes chest pain or tightness, difficulty breathing, choking, severe bleeding or bleeding that won’t stop, sudden weakness or difficulty talking, fainting or unconsciousness.
“Patients coming in with non-urgent conditions can expect an extended wait while staff provide care to people needing emergency treatment and care.
Here’s a quick reference guide to where you can go for online health information and guidance:
Consider a virtual telehealth consultation with a registered New Zealand health practitioner for non-urgent health issues: https://healthify.nz/apps/v/virtual-consult-apps/
www.Healthify.nz is Aotearoa New Zealand’s go-to website for trusted easy-to-understand health information and self-help resources.
You’ll find information on common conditions and injuries, such as sore throats (www.healthify.nz/health-a-z/s/sore-throat), stomach pain (www.healthify.nz/health-a-z/a/abdominal-pain/) as well as where to access a GP, clinic, or specialist service.
www.Healthpoint.co.nz provides up-to-date information about healthcare providers (GPs, pharmacies, social services, hospitals, testing and vaccination sites, mental health support) and their opening hours and services.
Feeling down? Free mental wellbeing support is available to help you get back on track
www.wellbeingsupport.health.nz/
Want Health information via an app? A Health App Library is made up of apps that have been reviewed by experts, so you can decide which ones are right for you and your whānau www.healthify.nz/apps/
