Healthy Tips for the Holidays--courtesy of IHA
By Contributor
In anticipation of heavy volumes at area Emergency Departments over the holiday season, Interior Health is reminding the public to take a few simple steps to avoid unnecessary trips to the hospital.
- For non-urgent care during office hours, call your family doctor or the doctor on call for the practice or clinic.
- Consider going to a local walk-in clinic. Call ahead to check the clinic’s hours.
- Try to see your doctor before the holidays, if you have any developing health concerns.
- Note the holiday hours of your local pharmacy or drug store, and ensure your prescriptions are up to date and filled prior to the holidays
- Call HealthLink BC at 8-1-1 for confidential health information and non-emergency services 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For deaf and hearing-impaired assistance (TTY), call 7-1-1.
- If you are concerned about a possible poisoning or exposure to a toxic substance, call Poison Control at 1-800-567-8911.
If at any time you feel that you require urgent medical attention, do not hesitate to go to the Emergency Department or call emergency services at 9-1-1.
In our regional hospitals, emergency services are available 24 hours a day; however, some hospitals may experience higher than normal volumes over the holidays. A triage system is used at the Emergency Department to ensure priority is given to those patients requiring the most urgent care.
More tips for staying safe and healthy:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand rub.
- Get a flu shot.
- Ensure your prescriptions are filled in advance, follow dosage directions and remember to keep your medications with you while travelling.
- Get regular exercise and eat nutritious foods.
- Everything in moderation, including alcohol.
- Keep activities fun and safe.
- Take care driving and avoid taking risks with the weather.
