People in Norfolk are being urged to only attend A&E if they have serious health problems over the festive season.
The Christmas and New Year period is one of the busiest times of the year for the NHS.
Minor injuries and illnesses such as coughs and colds can be treated at home or at the pharmacy.
Pharmacies across Norfolk and Waveney are open over Christmas, Boxing Day and New Year's Day.
Patients can also call 111 - the 24-hour medical helpline which is staffed by trained NHS advisors.
People with more serious problems can also try their GP.
If their GP surgery is closed, they will be put through to the 111 service.
Norfolk's walk-in centres will also be open over Christmas including Timber Hill Health Centre in The Castle Mall in Norwich, Cromer Minor Injuries Unit at Cromer Hospital and Greyfriars Health Centre in Howard Street South, Great Yarmouth.
Dr Alasdair Lennox, a Cromer GP and a member of NHS North Norfolk Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), said: 'It's estimated that up to 40 per cent of people who visit A&E do not need to be there.
'This festive season, we're keen to ensure that everyone in Norfolk is fully aware of all of the healthcare options available to them.'
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here