HSE South West is encouraging the public to familiarise themselves with the urgent care options available in Cork with the St Brigid's bank holiday weekend approaching.

Emergency Departments typically see increased activity over bank holiday weekends, with the most seriously ill and injured prioritised. This can lead to longer waiting times for less urgent cases. For many minor injuries, an Injury Unit may provide quicker access to assessment and treatment. These units offer consultant‑led care, including X‑rays, fracture management, treatment for burns and wound care.

Carole Croke, hospital manager at Bantry General Hospital, said that in a real emergency people should go to the Emergency Department or call 999/112.

'For non‑life‑threatening injuries injury units can often provide faster treatment. Units across Cork will be open this weekend, including Bantry Injury Unit from 8am to 8pm for patients aged five and above.'

Priscilla Lynch, HSE manager for Cork South and West, said that SouthDoc provides timely, convenient, and well-coordinated care for many non-emergency situations, offering an alternative to visiting the emergency department.

'SouthDoc, offers faster, more accessible, and more coordinated care than the emergency department for many non-emergency situations. By providing direct access to doctors and nurses, supporting continuity with your GP, and ensuring patient safety and confidentiality, SouthDoc helps keep the Emergency Department available for true emergencies while caring for the community at every step.'

Options for non-emergency healthcare include:

• Self-care – Have a well-stocked medicine cabinet to help with colds and sore throats
• Pharmacy – Ask your pharmacist for advice on common minor illnesses
• Your GP (check routine prescriptions ahead of the bank holiday weekend)
• Out-of-Hours GP – if your GP clinic is closed, call SouthDoc on 0818 355 999
• Injury Units – full list on hse.ie/injuryunits