MIDOC, pharmacies and local GPs are alternatives to the Emergency Department.
Midlands hospitals are urging people to know their healthcare options ahead of the Bank Holiday weekend.
They're reminding patients to consider attending MIDOC out-of-hours services, a pharmacy, or a local GP, before visiting an Emergency Department.
However, the HSE is urging people who are need of urgent care, to attend an ED at either of the three midlands hospitals in Mullingar, Portlaoise and Tullamore.
Orthopaedic Surgeon in the Midlands Regional Hospital Tullamore, Professor Eoin Sheehan, says he is noticing an increase in the number of traffic incidents reporting to hospitals:
Catriona Mc Donald, General Manager, Midland Regional Hospital Tullamore says they're preparing for a busy Bank Holiday weekend:
"We ask everyone to consider all options before going to ED.
Those who believe they may be seriously ill and require emergency care should of course come to hospital, but we would urge others to consider seeking support from pharmacists, GPs, GP out-of-hours services and injury units.
While some patients may regrettably experience long wait times in our emergency departments, urgent patients will always be prioritised for treatment and care.’
Patients who present at the Emergency Department in Midland Regional Hospital Tullamore with non-urgent conditions may experience long wait times to be seen.
Any patient who needs emergency hospital care will be seen and we would urge such patients not to delay attending the ED.
Do not delay in seeking medical attention if you suspect you are having a heart attack or stroke, please dial 999 or 112 in an emergency.
Plan ahead and make sure you have enough of any medications you might need over the bank holiday, both over the counter and prescription medicines."
Laois Set To Launch Hen Harrier Conservation Plan
Gardaí Issue Public Transport Plea Ahead Of Ploughing 2024
Buildings Across Westmeath To Light Up For Mental Health
Fewer Sworn In Gardaí Now Than January Last Year
9 Midlands Schools Selected For New Children's Initiative
Over €1m In Funding Granted To Midlands Climate Action Projects
Westmeath Town Wins Gold In European Awards
Midlands Home Buyers Shifting To Smaller Properties - Auctioneer
Laois Offaly Special Schools To Meet Junior Education Minister On Pilot Programme
Offaly Residents Invited To Participate In First Ever Online Census
Two Vehicles Seized By Offaly Gardaí
American And Irish Firefighters Team Up To Cycle For Charity
Offaly Councillor Announces Intention To Run In General Election
Meath Teen Reported Missing Last Week Located
Offaly Authors Recognised In Self-Publishing Book Awards
Westmeath Tourist Attraction Needs Safety Investment - 'Boxer' Moran
Promise Of Summer Temperatures Across The Midlands This Weekend
Petition Launched To Improve Lighting In Offaly Town
Daughter Of Two Major Movie Stars On Tour In The Midlands
Missing Roscommon Teen Found Safe And Well