On New Year’s Day almost 10,000 were treated in Emergency Departments (EDs) across the state, including 2000 arriving by ambulance. In the Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District (ISLHD) alone, 549 patients were seen on New Year’s Day with another 550 patients the following day.

ISLHD chief executive Margot Mains praised staff working during this incredibly busy time.

“Our staff in the ED and across the Hospital are working incredibly hard to manage the high volume of presentations over the holiday period,” she said. 

“I am hugely proud of the way our staff have responded to this demand and I thank them for continuing to provide the best possible care to our patients.”

Of the patients seen on New Year’s Day, more than 75 per cent were seen, treated and discharged within the four hour benchmark. 

To ease the burden on ED staff, NSW Health deputy secretary Susan Pearce reminded people to visit their local GP or medical centre for non-serious matters. 

“For any advice or concerns, the public should remember that Healthdirect is always able to assist with medical advice,” she said. 

Ms Pearce said it was also important to make sure medications and prescriptions are in order before heading off on holidays, and urged families to keep the 24-hour Healthdirect helpline in their phones.

“In the case of a health emergency, people should call Triple Zero (000) but for other health concerns Healthdirect is an excellent source of assistance,” she said. 

“By calling the Healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222, anyone can receive health advice from registered nurses on the line, at any time of day or night.”