NHSGGC data reveals men in Greater Glasgow and Clyde are more likely than women to go straight to A&E as they urge men to ‘Think ABC Before A&E’ and choose the right care in the right place
With the colder months upon us, our A&E departments are busier. This winter, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) is encouraging everyone, especially men, to make the right call about their healthcare before heading straight to emergency care.
Recent data shows that thousands of men are arriving at A&E unnecessarily, often because they’re unsure where else to turn. In fact, for every 100 people who go straight to A&E, around 54 are men, and 46 are women. That means men are about 15% more likely to attend A&E first than women.
This puts extra pressure on emergency departments and can lead to longer waits for everyone.
Our message is simple: choose the right care for your needs and don’t wait until it becomes an emergency. Think ABC Before A&E.
If you’re feeling unwell or have an injury, take a moment to think ABC:
A – Ask: Can you manage this illness or injury at home?
Before going to A&E, check the NHS Inform website or download the NHS 24 Online app for trusted advice.
B – Be aware: Know the healthcare options in your community.
- For common ailments, your local pharmacy offers free advice and treatment.
- Dental practices and optometrists can help with mouth and eye issues.
- GP practices can provide flexible appointments, including phone and video consultations.
C – Call 111: NHS 24 on 111 if it’s urgent or you’re unsure.
Trained clinicians will guide you to the right service, which could include the Minor Injuries Unit (MIU) or Flow Navigation Centre+ Plus.
And remember: if you think your condition is very urgent or life-threatening, call 999 or go to A&E immediately.
Dr Claire Harrow, NHSGGC Deputy Medical Director for Acute Services, added: “Every winter we see thousands of people coming to A&E with injuries or illnesses that could be treated elsewhere. This often means longer waits for them and puts pressure on emergency departments.
“Going into winter, we want men, and the public at large, to know how to treat themselves at home when appropriate and be aware of all the NHS services available to them if required.”
Look after your health all year round
Taking care of your health isn’t just about being reactive.
Bowel screening kits are sent to everyone aged 50–74 every two years, but more than a third of men don’t return them. Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) screening is offered to men aged 65 and over, a simple scan that can prevent a potentially fatal rupture.
Men in Scotland are also more likely to smoke and drink more than recommended, and are three times more likely to die by suicide than women. Yet men are often less likely to reach out for support. Making that first step can make all the difference.
Dr Emilia Crighton, Director of Public Health at NHSGGC, said: “How many times have you heard a male friend or loved one put off getting the help they need, saying ‘Ach, it’s just a scratch’ or ‘I’ll be fine—I don’t want to bother anyone’?
“It might be bravado, or it might be lack of knowledge, but it’s important men look after themselves and access the most appropriate health services at the earliest opportunity.
“Looking after your health is the most important thing you can do—for your loved ones as much as yourself.”
For more information on accessing the right care in the right place all year round, visit the NHSGGC website or NHS Inform.
