Healthcare advice for festival visitors from NHS Lothian

The festivals in August are a huge part of the city’s modern culture and history. Established in 1947, the Edinburgh International Festival (3-27 August) has grown significantly year by year (audience numbers last year topped 450,000), making it one of the most popular events in the world.

Last year nearly 2,700,000 tickets were issued for 53,232 performances of 3,398 Fringe shows. Record numbers (250,000 people) attended the Edinburgh Book Festival and this year’s Festival finale fireworks concert on 27 August is expected to be seen by 250,000 spectators.

Given the large numbers of people coming to Edinburgh, it’s no surprise that some fall ill and we need to treat them. If you are one of these visitors or performers and you become unwell, it’s important for you to know who to turn to for medical advice or attention when you’re away from home.

For those who become unwell and need medical help or advice, please follow the information below, which aims to guide you to the most appropriate healthcare service.

Emergency care

Emergency care is always free at the point of use. For temporary residents from around the world, if you access any of our services we will treat you first and then sort things out later – you won’t be denied urgent care.  If at any time you think you need an emergency ambulance for a life-threatening condition, call 999.

Emergency dental treatment

For information on emergency dental care, visit www.nhsinform.scot/care-support-and-rights/nhs-services

Local pharmacies

Pharmacies will provide you with help and advice on common health problems, minor ailments and questions about medicines. If you are from the United Kingdom and run out of repeat medication, a pharmacy may be able to help you get a prescription from your own GP practice or an emergency supply.

To find the pharmacy nearest to you and for more self-help advice, go to www.nhsinform.scot/national-service-directory/pharmacies

Minor Injuries Clinic

For minor injuries (minor cuts / burns, wound infections, sprains and small bone breaks (from shoulder to fingers and knees to toes), go to the Minor Injuries Clinic at the Western General Hospital, Crewe Road South, Edinburgh.

If you want to check if your injury is suitable for treatment at the clinic, phone ahead on 0131 537 3481.  The clinic is staffed by specialist nurse, paramedic and physiotherapy practitioners, who provide treatment for adults and children over one year. It is open every day from 8am – 9pm (last patient book-in: 8.30pm). No appointment necessary.

More information on the Minor Injuries Clinic is on our website at www.nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk/services/emergencies/MinorInjuryClinic/Pages/default.aspx

Sexual Health Services

The Chalmers Centre provides care and advice on sexual health issues, including emergency contraception. For appointments and advice, call 0131 536 1070 or visit www.lothiansexualhealth.scot.nhs.uk for more information.  For walk-ins, you can attend the Centre between 8:30am and 10am.

NHS inform

For advice on common health problems, see the NHS inform website at www.nhsinform.scot

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