HOSPITAL leaders have issued a renewed call for people to attend A&E only if they need urgent medical help.

A recent study undertaken at Furness General Hospital's emergency department in December found 39.1 per cent of patients could have been better helped by their GP or local pharmacist. 

The reminder comes as Barrow's hospital struggles under the pressure of extra patients this winter with non-urgent surgeries and appointments being cancelled to provide extra beds.

Barrow GP Dr Geoff Jolliffe, of Risedale Surgery, said: "The whole system is under pressure. 

"Too many people don’t know which part of the NHS to go to for help, so they go to the part that is easiest to access like A&E. 

"We need to help people understand the best place to get the help they need so that the whole system works more efficiently."

READ MORE: Bed blocking at Barrow hospital hits all time high

READ MORE: Junior doctors to walk out on strike

Anyone who is acutely ill or injured, bleeding or suffering chest pains or difficulty breathing should attend A&E.

But those with winter illnesses such as colds, flu or other viruses are advised to seek help from a pharmacist or GP.

They are also advised to keep warm, stay hydrated and eat well in order to help them recover as quickly as possible.

Round the clock advice is also available by calling the NHS 111 phone line.

Access to the Cumbria Health on Call - the county's out of hours service for people who need help when their doctor's surgery has closed - can be contacted by calling 03000 247 247.