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Healthy Tips for the Holidays--courtesy of IHA

Contributor
By Contributor
December 11th, 2012

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.

This post was syndicated from https://rosslandtelegraph.com
Categories: GeneralHealth

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