As the final bank holiday of the summer approaches, we want you to stay well and access the right care over the long weekend.
Top of the list is making sure repeat prescriptions are ordered and collected in good time, as GP surgeries and most pharmacies will be closed for the holiday.
During May, nearly 24,000 people had to use NHS 111 in the South West to secure urgent repeat medications because they were running out of medication. 17,752 requests were made online, accounting for more than one in five contacts, with a further 6,461 people using the 111 phone line.
Trevor Smith, Medical Director for NHS South West, says:
“We know that we see an increase in people who need our help over and immediately after a bank holiday weekend, which is why we are asking people to take a few simple steps now to minimise their need for NHS help this weekend.
Having enough of your prescribed medicines, a well-stocked first aid kit, and knowing which local pharmacy will be open and when can help you manage day-to-day and minor health issues.
And if you have done all those things and still need non-life-threatening help, then NHS 111 online can provide urgent health advice and direct you to the most appropriate NHS service for your condition.”
Top tips for a safer weekend
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Order any repeat prescriptions now – you can easily order repeat prescriptions via the NHS App, through your GP practice website or, if you do not have access to GP online services, by calling your GP practice
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Check which of your local pharmacies is open this bank holiday and when
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Keep a well-stocked first aid kit at home – find out what you need
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Stay hydrated and take care in warmer weather
Thank you for accessing the right care and reducing avoidable pressure on NHS services.
