Queenslanders called on to keep EDs for emergencies ONLY

Queensland Health is today re-booting its Keep Emergency for emergencies advertising campaign with digital content to tackle the increasing demand facing Queensland’s public hospital emergency departments.

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Cameron Dick said while the campaign had been effective in 2016, re-booting the campaign with digital assets would put it in front of more Queenslanders and contribute to the behavioural change needed to take the pressure off emergency departments.

“More than 90 per cent of those surveyed after viewing last year’s campaign agreed with the 'Keeping Emergency for emergencies' message, but it’s clear that some people still need reminding that emergency departments are there for life-threatening emergencies, not to help with a stubbed toe or get you a script for the pharmacy,” Mr Dick said.

“This year, Queensland Health has created specific social media content in a bid to reach a broader audience and really instil in Queenslanders what our EDs are for.

“In 2015/2016, 1203 Queenslanders presented to emergency departments with splinters, 434 of these in the hand or wrist, using valuable resources meant for patients in true emergency situations.

“451 people presented with a sprained or strained toe, 225 had shoved something up their nose and three were ill with common colds, while one person had the hiccoughs and one had a blister on their foot.

“While all of these issues might have required medical attention, they were probably not emergencies.

“In addition to these figures, 3220 people presented at an emergency department to ask for a prescription, while 2704 requested a medical certificates.

“Our Emergency departments are busy places with some of the country’s best doctors and nurses who are trained to save lives.

“We need to keep our EDs free from congestion, so I encourage people to visit their GP if they feel unwell or to call 13 HEALTH which is available 24-hours a day.

“Queenslanders need to use their common-sense before heading to the hospital or calling 000 for an ambulance. If the injury or illness is severe or life-threatening, the ED is the best place to be.”

Note to media: the new social media content can be viewed and downloaded here https://vimeo.com/211762271/290ea21de7

Media contact: Michelle Wellington 0437 323 834