JAMES Paget University Hospital is asking people to use its A&E service responsibly over the Bank Holiday weekend. To help ensure that those who really need urgent medical attention receive it as quickly as possible, people are being asked to only attend A&E if they need emergency attention for a serious medical condition, accident or trauma.

JAMES Paget University Hospital is asking people to use its A&E service responsibly over the Bank Holiday weekend.

To help ensure that those who really need urgent medical attention receive it as quickly as possible, people are being asked to only attend A&E if they need emergency attention for a serious medical condition, accident or trauma.

Andrew Fox, Divisional Manager for Emergency Services at the Trust, said: "We have appropriate staff and processes in place to ensure that the clinical needs of patients attending A&E are met in a timely way, according to their clinical priority.

"If used responsibly, A&E will be more effective for all patients and we encourage the public to avoid putting unnecessary pressure on A&E.

"The doctors and nurses in A&E are equipped to deal with serious emergency cases. Turning up with minor ailments will not mean patients are seen more quickly, as staff will simply prioritise the most serious cases."

There are many ways for people to get health advice and treatment near where they live, be seen more quickly, and avoid putting unnecessary pressure on A&E such as visiting their local GP or pharmacist, calling NHS Direct on 0845 4647 or visiting www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk.