Plan ahead with medicine needs ahead of Easter says Yorkshire NHS
People are being reminded to get their repeat prescriptions and to visit NHS111 online first unless it is an emergency
As the Easter bank holiday approaches people in Yorkshire are reminded to plan ahead with their medicines needs, and to visit NHS111 online first in the event medical advice is needed.
With most GP practices closed for the four-day weekend which begins with Good Friday on 15th April, the NHS wants to make sure people access the most appropriate care, depending on whether they have a minor health complaint, or something more serious.
Dr Yvette Oade, the NHS region’s Acting Medical Director, said:
“The NHS is here for you if you need us over the bank holiday. As Easter approaches we’re asking people in the North East and Yorkshire to ensure they’re prepared. Please order any repeat prescriptions you may need to last over the bank holidays on Good Friday (15 April) and Easter Monday (18 April).
“You can use the NHS App to order repeat prescriptions, and change your nominated pharmacy, in just a few taps.”
“I’d encourage people to familiarise themselves and use the 111 Online service - it is a brilliant option to have. It can tell you where to get help for your symptoms and even arrange a telephone call with a healthcare professional if appropriate.”
Dr Oade’s message comes as the NHS continues to be busy with an increased demand for its services.
Health advice and information is available from the NHS App, NHS website and your local GP practice website. You can also use the NHS website to find a pharmacy near you which will be open this bank holiday.
People may also consider having at home a small stock of basic medicines in case needed for minor illness or injury. These may include paracetamol, plasters, indigestion remedy and anti-diarrhoeal medicine. Ask your local pharmacist for advice on what medicines you should keep at home.
If you need urgent medical help and do not know what to do, you can go to 111.nhs.uk or call 111 in the first instance. A&E and 999 remain there for any life-threatening health concerns.
You can find details of the pharmacy opening times over the Easter bank holiday weekend on the NHS North Yorkshire CCG website - https://northyorkshireccg.nhs.uk/north-yorkshire-pharmacy-opening-hours-easter-2022/
CCG GP Governing Body member, Dr Bruce Willoughby, said: "It’s important people use NHS resources sensibly and ‘choose the right care, first time’ this Easter weekend.
“A wide range of common illnesses and injuries can be treated at home simply with over-the-counter medicines and plenty of rest. Often there is no shortcut to recovery – in many cases these things just need to run their course.
“Having a medicine cabinet at home with some simple over-the-counter remedies like paracetamol, ibuprofen, and anti-diarrhoea tablets is also recommended so you can treat any common illnesses or ailments yourself, without needing to see a GP.
“We ask patients to remember that hospital Accident and Emergency departments and 999 are for emergencies only, in serious or life-threatening situations."