Christchurch’s only 24-hour private surgery clinic has reached its limit and is unable to accept any more patients this evening.
At 9.30 PM on Monday, the clinic on Madras Street issued a critical notice, instructing the public to either dial 111 or head directly to the Emergency Department at Christchurch Hospital.
The public was urged to seek updates from their Facebook page.
However, five hours earlier, Christchurch Hospital released a crucial public health alert about its current high volume of patients, stating it was “experiencing high demand and was very busy.”
A hospital spokesperson said except for emergencies, the public should contact Healthline at 0800 611 116 for free 24/7 health guidance.
The spokesperson strongly advised in the event of a medical emergency it was imperative to call 111 without delay.
On the 1st of December, the 24-hour surgery clinic released a statement, announcing that on Mondays, they would resume full 24-hour operations, following critical staffing shortages.
Here’s a quick reference guide to where you can go for online health information and guidance issued by Christchurch Hospital
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/
