Need prescriptions to get through Christmas? Get them in now
Wiltshire health bosses are asking people to get prepared
If you'll be in need of further regular medication to get you through the Christmas period in Wiltshire, the advice is to get prepared now.
Health bosses in the county are asking patients not to leave it to the minute, in case of delays or stock shortages.
They've warned that repeat prescriptions ought to be in by next Friday (15th December) at the latest, to be picked up in time.
Most pharmacies in Wiltshire will close for Christmas on Friday 22nd December, and not open again until at least Wednesday 27th December.
Helen Wilkinson, Community Pharmacy Clinical Lead, for the Integrated Care Board covering Wiltshire, said:
“Pharmacy teams are always busy during the winter months, and even more so at Christmas.
“Getting repeat prescriptions in early will help our colleagues in pharmacies across the region to manage demand effectively, and in a way that ensures everybody gets the medicine they need in time for the Christmas break.
“The consequences of running out of prescribed medicine can be significant, especially for older people and those who are vulnerable, which is why having an ample supply should be very near the top of everybody’s Christmas to-do list.”
The shorter week between Christmas and New Year will see some pharmacies working under revised, and often shorter, hours.
That will then be followed by another long weekend, with the majority of pharmacy outlets staying closed on New Year’s Day.
Normal service at all sites will resume from Tuesday 2nd January 2024.