Scots will be encouraged to stay away from accident and emergency departments if they can be better treated elsewhere in the NHS, the Health Secretary has said.
Angela Constance said a public awareness campaign will be launched this year urging people to use “the most appropriate” health service.
She said some people attending A&E “could be treated more appropriately in services closer to home”.
It comes amid a string of record-breaking A&E waits.
She announced the campaign as part of a series of measures in the Government’s winter health plan.
The measures also include expanding community care, with more than 10,000 more patients using the Hospital at Home service.
She also renewed calls for eligible patients to get vaccinated against seasonal viruses including flu, as well as what the Government said was the “further implementation of a new national plan to improve the flow of patients through hospital and free up bed capacity”.
Ms Constance said: “A collective effort will be critical in the months ahead as we look to support our NHS through the winter. There is a role for everyone in Scotland to play.
“Seasonal illnesses, including flu, are already beginning to circulate, and I encourage everyone who is eligible to come forward for vaccination when invited.
“Last winter, almost 5,000 adults and 1,700 children in Scotland were hospitalised as a result of flu. Getting vaccinated protects you and those around you.
“It’s also important people know how and where to access care.
“Attendances at A&E remain extremely high, and many people could be treated more appropriately in services closer to home.
“A&E should be used for emergencies. Choosing the right service can help people receive advice and treatment more quickly while ensuring emergency care remains available for those who need it most.”