Move to cut inappropriate NHS use

Demand for services is high

A campaign to try to minimise inappropriate use of NHS services has been launched by ministers.

The Get The Right Treatment initiative aims to direct the public to the right part of the NHS when they need help.

Ministers particularly want to stop people with minor problems calling an ambulance, going to A&E or calling out a GP out-of-hours.

They fear such inappropriate use is draining resources away from those who really need them.

By making the right choice at the right time, patients will get the fastest, best possible treatment. Rose Winterton

The £1.8m campaign includes posters, magazine and radio advertising across England.

Health Minister Rose Winterton said: "The NHS offers the public a wide range of services, and it can be difficult for people to decide which service suits their needs.

"This campaign will help inform people about their choices.

"In addition to the more traditional services such as local hospitals and the GPs, the NHS offers convenient, accessible services such as NHS Walk-in Centres and NHS Direct.

"By making the right choice at the right time, patients will get the fastest, best possible treatment. These posters offer guidance about the best course of action for a given situation.

"For example, visiting an NHS Walk-in Centre for treatment of cuts, sprains and skin complaints, or NHS Direct for guidance on treating a common cold, or when to dial 999."

A recent survey by the magazine Pulse highlighted glaring examples of requests made to GPs for out-of-hours care.

One GP in Swansea was called in the early hours by a patient saying: "Can you tell my son to stop watching TV and go to bed?"

Ms Winterton added: "We want to see our resources being used sensibly - for example, emergency services such as ambulances should be used only in genuine emergencies.

"If people are unsure about where to go for treatment, NHS Direct can help them make the right choice to meet their needs."