15 October 2018
Health officials are encouraging people to Choose Well when needing health care this long weekend and ensure medications
are up-to-date in advance of the holiday period.
Hawke’s Bay District Health Board Chief Medical and Dental Officer – Hospital, Dr John Gommans, said there were many
options for non-urgent care over the long weekend from various health centres, clinics and pharmacies that would be
open, as well as Healthline for free advice from a registered nurse 24/7 on 0800 611 116.
“Locals needing healthcare can also phone their doctor’s clinic and be automatically diverted to an after hours centre
for help and advice.
“Remember the hospital’s emergency department (ED) is for people requiring emergency or life-threatening care, so please
help us by leaving ED for emergencies only.”
Dr Gommans said making sure medications were up-to-date was also important.
“If you take medication regularly, check you have enough supplies to get you through, to avoid the need to visit an
after hours centre.”
A list of pharmacies and clinics that will be open this Hawke’s Bay Anniversary weekend can be found on the Our Health
website at www.ourhealth.co.nz.
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