HSE advice on emergency access over holiday weekend in Cork

Ahead of the May bank holiday weekend, HSE South West has advised people on where to get urgent medical care if it’s needed as they anticipate Emergency Departments will be busy.

People in Cork are encouraged to think about all their healthcare options before going to the Emergency Department, which needs to be available for those requiring critical life-saving care.

Many alternative health services will be open over the weekend, including pharmacies, Injury Units and GP Out-of-Hours service SouthDoc.

Dr Anne Sheahan, Regional Director Public Health, HSE South West said: “With so many festivals, music gigs, sporting events, and Holy Communions on around Cork city and county this weekend, many people will be out and about.

“Hopefully, the weather will be fine, so friends and family get to enjoy time together outside – just remember the sunscreen.

“However, if you or a loved one is seriously ill or injured this weekend, please call 999/112 or make your way to an Emergency Department. However, if your injury or illness isn’t critical or urgent - there are a range of local options available to you and your family,” she said.

On Thursday, there were 57 people being treated on trolleys in Cork University Hospital, as well as 14 in Mercy University Hospital and four in Bantry General Hospital.

Emergency Departments are often busier around bank holiday weekends and see the sickest patients first, meaning a that patients with non-urgent injuries may face longer waiting times. These patients may get the treatment they need faster at an Injury Unit.

Carole Croke, manager of Bantry General Hospital said: “In a genuine emergency, do not delay and either go to your nearest Emergency Department, or dial 999/112.

“But if you or your child has a minor injury like a sprain, a cut, or a burn, you might be seen faster at an Injury Unit. We’re open all weekend here at Bantry and ready to help.” Injury units treat injuries that are not life-threatening, such as broken bones, dislocations, sprains, wounds, scalds, and minor burns.

This weekend, the following injury units will be available in Cork city and county:

• The Mercy Injury Unit Gurranabraher at St Mary’s Health Campus Gurranabraher, open 8am to 8pm and available to those aged 10 and older 
• The Mallow Injury Unit, open 8am to 8pm, and available to those aged five and older 
• Bantry Injury Unit, open 8am to 8pm, and available to those aged five and older 

In addition, the Irish Life Health expresscare clinic is available to treat minor injuries on the same terms as the HSE injury units. It is open from 10am to 8pm for those aged 12 months and over.

The HSE has also advised that new research shows a sharp increase in sunburn and low engagement with basic sun‑protection behaviours among teenagers and younger age groups.

From April to September, the sun’s UV rays in Ireland are strong enough to damage your skin – even when it’s cloudy.

They advised following the SunSmart 5 S’s:

• Slip on clothing that covers your skin 
• Slop on sunscreen (SPF 30+ for adults, 50+ for kids) 
• Slap on a wide-brimmed hat 
• Seek shade between 11am and 3pm 
• Slide on sunglasses 

Shirley O’Shea, the Senior Health Promotion and Improvement Officer of Cancer Prevention with HSE South West said: “Your body and mind benefit from spending time outdoors, especially during the summer months.

“However, it is crucial that children, teenagers, and adults are protected and safe in the sun. Give young people the right habits now and it will stand to them for a lifetime.

“This is especially important for those working outside also, including those in construction, agriculture, transport, fisheries, maintenance, local authorities, and water safety.”