10 April 2017

The following message is from our colleagues at Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs)

With Easter almost here, there’s a lot to think about, from making sure you have enough ribbon for that Easter bonnet to organising Easter Egg hunts.

However, one plan you really do need to make – especially if you have a long-term condition such or if you’re a carer – is to order your prescriptions early so that you don’t run out of your regular medication before the holidays.

Some local pharmacies may offer reduced opening hours over the Easter period, so it’s important to plan ahead, especially if you’re going away.

Dr Julian Povey, Chair at NHS Shropshire CCG, said: “Ordering your essential medicines before the Easter break means that you have one less thing to think about. We don’t want anyone to run out of their medication over the Easter period and as a result need hospital treatment when they could be enjoying time with family and friends.

“You can save yourself time, by ordering your repeat prescriptions as early as possible. You might also want to consider signing up to a repeat prescription service so you can collect your prescriptions from your pharmacy or get them delivered straight to your door.”

Your local pharmacy can offer you free, qualified health advice at any time, and no appointment is necessary. They can give you expert help on everyday illnesses and answer any questions about prescribed and over-the-counter medicines.

There are a number of health services available to help you stay well over the Easter Bank Holiday:

  • There is a holiday pharmacy rota operating in Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin, which can be found by clicking here.
  • Patients can also call the out-of-hours GP service, Shropdoc, when their own surgery is closed on 0333 222 66 55.
  • Help and advice is available 24-hours-a-day by ringing NHS 111 (just dial 111) for free.
  • Bank Holiday MIU opening times can be found at http://www.shropscommunityhealth.nhs.uk