The East Midlands Ambulance Service (EMAS) have encouraged the general public to seek help from a range of healthcare providers before they get seriously ill, limiting the need for ambulance call-outs at a time when services are incredibly stretched.

EMAS shared on their social media: "Making the right choices before you become seriously unwell is really important."

They have emphasised that this doesn't just include immediate medial care you might receive from the NHS, but care from a range of providers across the spectrum.

This includes:

• dentists
• GPs
• opticians
• pharmacies
• urgent care centres
• mental health services

Find your local services here.

While they encourage activities that offer health benefits, they have also encouraged people to take care while undertaking activities such as hiking and biking: "Download What3Words if you're going off the beaten track so we can locate you quickly in an emergency."

If you need help now, and you're not sure what to do, visit to 111.nhs.uk or call 111

If you think it's an emergency, find your nearest A&E or call 999.

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