Patients are referred to the Winter Clinics by their general practice, the emergency department or a pharmacist, for conditions and complaints needing same-day appointments but which aren’t an emergency, such as sore throats, ear infections, fevers or minor abdominal pain. The clinics, which are currently being trialled, run Monday to Friday, 3pm until 7pm.
Practice nurses at the clinics see patients and record blood pressure, temperature and other observations. A general practitioner connects virtually from a Dunedin clinic to consult with the patient and nurse, make diagnoses and issue prescriptions. If required they can refer patients on to ED, secondary care or other services.
“Winter Clinics give patients more access to acute care during peak winter months and provide additional support to general practices and the emergency department,” says Wendy Findlay, WellSouth Director of Nursing.
Feeling unwell after hours in Southland?
If you’re feeling unwell after hours ask your GP if they offer after hours telephone advice.
Just call your practice as usual after hours and if they offer this service, a doctor or nurse will talk to you and give you advice. If not, you will be directed to the Invercargill After Hours Doctors on 03 218 8821.
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