The following information is from our partners at Shropshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG)
Ahead of the bank holiday this weekend, health chiefs at Shropshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) are reminding local residents to plan for the long weekend by using NHS services appropriately, being sure their medicines cabinets are stocked up and that they are prepared in case of minor illnesses or accidents.
There are a number of services available during the busy period including NHS 111 where you can access urgent GP advice.
There are a few simple steps you can make to make the most of your weekend: restock your medicines cabinet if needed, know when your GP surgery and local pharmacy is open and plan ahead for any necessary repeat prescriptions.
Dr Julian Povey, Chair of Shropshire CCG said: “We want people to enjoy themselves this bank holiday but we also want to make sure people are well prepared with their medicine cabinets stocked up, just in case any minor illness or accidents occur.
“If you or someone you care for requires medicine regularly, make sure you order your repeat prescriptions well in advance. Making sure you have the right medicines in the first place could make all of the difference when it comes to keeping well.”
Residents who need advice or treatment over the bank holiday weekend should call NHS 111. A fully trained advisor will listen to your symptoms, provide much needed advice and direct you to the local service which can best meet your needs. The helpline is free of charge and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Dr Povey added: “It is also important to keep in mind that hospital emergecny services are traditionally very busy during the bank holiday weekend and this week is no different. We would ask our local residents to consider the alternatives I have mentioned. Remember that A&E Departments in hospitals are only for serious injury or illness.”
For free confidential expert advice, visit your local pharmacy by selecting the ‘services near you’ section on the NHS website.
A full list of bank holiday Monday opening times for Shropshire CCG can be found on the CCG website www.shropshireccg.nhs.uk