HEALTH chiefs have launched a £40,000 campaign to educate Bolton patients about the right time to attend A and E.

The NHS Bolton Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) says the advertising drive will help people make the right choice when it comes to urgent health care, treatment, or advice.

CCG bosses say up to 30 per cent of patients with minor illnesses or injuries who go to A and E do not need to be there.

They maintain that the first port of call for these patients is their GP surgery.

Dr Barry Silvert, clinical director for Integrated Commissioning at the CCG, said: “NHS Bolton Clinical Commissioning Group is committed to ensuring that patients are seen by the right person, at the right place and time. This is essential if we are to improve patient safety and the quality of care.

“I strongly urge people in Bolton to leave A&E for those who really need it, otherwise we risk putting huge pressure on a vital and highly valued resource in our borough.

“There are alternatives, so please ensure that you make the right choice this winter, both for your own health and that of the local NHS.”

The new campaign will encourage patients to access the GP out-of-hours service, seek advice from a local pharmacist, and self care.

This last option means resting and drinking plenty of fluids when suffering with a cold or virus.

The CCG and Bolton NHS Foundation Trust — which runs the hospital — are also introducing a new streaming system to prevent unnecessary admissions to A and E.

The new system includes a “clinical navigator” supported by a GP to handle non-urgent patients who can wait for an appointment to see their GP or pharmacist.

The latest campaign will continue over the winter months online, in print and on the radio.

For more information, go online to boltonhealthchoices.com.