People urged to 'make best use' of NHS services
BBCThe NHS is urging people to "make the best use" of its health services to keep pressure off emergency departments this Easter.
It said the bank holiday was one the busiest times of the year for the NHS, as thousands of visitors arrived to enjoy the region's beaches and countryside.
NHS Devon chief medical officer Dr Peter Collins said: "By choosing the right service... visitors and residents can help ensure urgent and emergency care is available for those who need it most."
The NHS encouraged people to call 999 "in a life-threatening emergency - when someone is seriously ill or injured, or their life is at risk".
Advice and treatment
Collins said: "We're encouraging people to plan for their health."
He said steps that could be taken included "remembering that local pharmacies can help with many common conditions through the Pharmacy First service".
The NHS added that people should use those services for advice and treatment for common conditions which included sore throats, earache, sinusitis, infected insect bites and urinary tract infections.
NHS Cornwall said people heading to the region should pack a small "holiday health kit" with simple first‑aid items such as pain relief, plasters and antiseptic wipes and sun cream.
It also urged people to check in on vulnerable family members, friends or neighbours to make sure medicine cabinets were stocked.
The NHS added in a life-threatening emergency such as "someone who is unconscious, struggling to breathe, having a severe allergic reaction, experiencing a seizure for the first time or suffering serious injury or bleeding", people should "always call 999".
It said for urgent medical advice or for those who were unsure which service they should use, people should visit NHS 111 online or call 111.