STOKE Mandeville Hospital has issued another public appeal as high volumes of patients try to access care at its A&E ward.

An NHS statement sent out tonight says: “The Stoke Mandeville Hospital in Aylesbury is currently experiencing high volumes of patients at A&E and members of the public are therefore encouraged to choose well when accessing local health services this weekend.

"Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust, which runs Stoke Mandeville Hospital, is urging patients to carefully consider the most appropriate place to seek medical treatment for a health problem.

“In particular, the public are reminded that they should only access emergency A&E services in a genuine accident or emergency.”

Last weekend the hospital saw a surge in patient admissions, with norovirus thought to be a major factor (see related links).

Though the highly contagious winter bug does not normally require a hospital or GP visit, health chiefs said it can often aggravate other illnesses which may then require hospital care.

The following guidance has also been issued this evening which details various NHS services available to patients:

NHS Direct – advice is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by calling 0845 46 47 or visiting www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk. NHS Direct provides free expert health advice and information and is run by qualified nurses.

Pharmacies – your community pharmacists are qualified experts who can give confidential advice on common minor illnesses like coughs and colds, headaches or cystitis, as well as medicines and emergency contraception.

GP surgery – if the options above are not appropriate to your condition, you can call your surgery for an appointment with your GP or practice nurse. Your GP can help with vaccinations, prescriptions, medical advice and care. To find your local GP call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

Out of hours GP service – if you have an urgent problem which can’t wait until your doctor’s surgery reopens call the out of hours GP service on: 0300 130 3035.

Minor Injuries and Illnesses Unit at Wycombe Hospital - For urgent, but not life-threatening injuries and illnesses which you think are unsuitable for a GP appointment. It is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and is run by advanced nurse practitioners, emergency nurse practitioners, GPs and administrative staff. More details HERE.

Accident & Emergency at Stoke Mandeville Hospital – should be attended if a patient experiences emergency life-threatening conditions such as chest pain, blacking out and severe blood loss. A&E is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. In an emergency dial 999.