With the August bank holiday approaching, the public across South Yorkshire are being urged to plan and be prepared.
Local health teams are advising people to order and collect regular medicines well ahead of the upcoming August bank holiday.
Pharmacies will be opening hours over the bank holiday, but some have limited hours, and many will be closed on Monday 25 August, making it more challenging for patients to access medicines at short notice.
Being organised and ordering repeat prescriptions before the start of the long weekend which is from the 23-25 August will help you stay well and ease pressure on services. A list of some local pharmacies open over the bank holiday weekend can be found on the NHS website.
The easiest and commonest way to order repeat prescriptions is via the NHS App or through your GP practice’s website to enable the practices and pharmacies to have the prescription ready in time.
The NHS App also allows people to book and cancel appointments at their GP practice, view their health record and get health advice, searching trusted NHS information and advice on hundreds of conditions and treatments. Download the NHS App on the app store or on google play.
Keeping medicine cabinets stocked with common treatments and planning will ensure residents can make the most of the bank holiday weekend.
Local pharmacists can give expert, confidential advice and medicines for minor ailments such as colds, tummy troubles and much more.
Dr David Crichton, Medical Officer of NHS South Yorkshire said: “We are asking that you help yourself stay well over the bank holiday weekend by making sure you have enough of your medication to see you through the long weekend. Order your repeat prescription well in advance, especially if you’re planning on going away.”
“Running out of your usual medication is best avoided, especially if you use them to control a heart condition, breathing problems or have a long-term health condition such as diabetes.”
“If you do run out of your medication, NHS 111 online can offer advice on how to get an emergency supply. But it’s always best to be prepared.”
“It doesn’t take long to collect prescriptions or over-the-counter remedies so if you take regular medications or need to stock up your medicine cabinet, please plan ahead so you can enjoy your break.”
Over the August bank holiday, urgent and emergency care services will be open.
NHS 111 is also available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year online at 111.nhs.uk or by calling 111 for any urgent but not life-threatening medical needs. Trained advisers can direct people to the best possible care for their needs, including arranging an out-of-hours GP appointment or an appointment time to attend A&E.