DOCTORS are urging people to call their GP or see a pharmacist first if they have a health need that's not an emergency.

Derriford Hospital in Plymouth is currently on 'black alert', with more people attending the emergency department and more beds in use than usual.

Dr Steve Harris, a GP from Ivybridge and Vice Chair of the Western locality of Northern, Eastern and Western Devon Clinical Commissioning Group (NEW Devon CCG), said people could help ease pressure on the local NHS by choosing the right healthcare service for their needs.

He said: 'For example, in Western Devon we are encouraging people to consider using the minor injuries unit at the Cumberland Centre in Plymouth if they have an illness or injury that's not an emergency, instead of heading to the emergency department at Derriford.'

Minor injuries units are an alternative to attending emergency departments when an injury is not considered life threatening, but still requires urgent treatment. Problems which can be treated at MIUs include cuts, small burns and scalds, bites and stings, certain sprains and fractures and in some cases, minor head injuries. The Cumberland Centre MIU is open from 8.30am until 9pm every day.

Other options include visiting a GP, calling NHS 111 or visiting a pharmacy.