Scoop has an Ethical Paywall
Canterbury GP teams providing care around the clock
31 May 2017
Canterbury GP teams providing care around the clock
With winter on our doorstep, Canterbury DHB is encouraging people to make their GP team their first call whenever they need health advice.
Dr Alistair Humphrey, Medical Officer of Health and part-time GP, says people can phone their GP team any time of day or night.
“Even after-hours you can call your usual general practice number and when they’re closed, a team of nurses is available to answer your call. The nurses provide free health advice, and if you need to be seen urgently by a doctor, they can tell you what to do and where to go,” says Dr Humphrey.
“If you save your general practice phone number in your mobile phone, that’s the only number you need to access health advice 24/7.”
Dr Humphrey says winter is a really busy time for the Canterbury Health System, with increased rates of illness and greater demand on hospital services.
“It’s always important people access the most appropriate health care, and in most cases this is your general practice team, even after-hours. Don’t wait until it’s too late – phone your GP team before things get worse,” says Dr Humphrey.
If you phone your GP team after-hours and need urgent medical attention they will advise on the most appropriate place to go to receive the care you need.
If a friend or family member needs life-saving emergency medical attention always call 111 for an ambulance.
If you’re unsure whether it’s an emergency phone your GP team any time of day or night.
People who are not enrolled with a general practice team are missing out! More information on the benefits of enrolling is available at www.cdhb.health.nz/carearoundtheclock
-ends-
Canterbury DHB
CDHB
Canterbury District Health Board (CDHB) is a Christchurch, New Zealand based hospital and healthcare provider for the
Canterbury region of New Zealand. Our region extends from Kekerengu in the North, to Rangitata in the South and Arthurs Pass in the West and comprises the six Territorial Local Authorities of Kaikoura, Hurunui, Waimakariri, Christchurch City, Selwyn and Ashburton.
We collaborate with other health and disability organisations, stakeholders and our community to decide what health and disability services are needed and how to best use the funding we receive from Government to improve, promote and protect the health, wellbeing and independence of our population.
At the Canterbury DHB, our vision is to improve the health and wellbeing of people living in Canterbury.
Braden Currie: Sets Sights On The Ironman North American Championships In Texas
Whanganui Regional Museum: Historic Wedding Dress Unveiled, A Piece Of Marton’s Heritage
Donovan Ryan: Local Runner Takes Out Frontrunner Christchurch Marathon
University of Auckland: Tributes Flow For Much Loved Pacific Leader Melegalenu’u Ah Sam
NZEI: Ministry Of Education Cuts Will Disproportionately Affect Pasifika
Day One Hapai te Haeata: Call To Action For Young Filmmakers Against The Backdrop Of Funding Cuts