With the August bank holiday approaching, the public across South Yorkshire are being urged to plan ahead and order any repeat prescriptions in good time.
Local health teams are advising people not to leave it until the last minute to order and collect repeat prescriptions ahead of the upcoming August bank holiday.
Pharmacies will have limited opening hours over the bank holiday, and many will be closed on Monday 26 August, making it more challenging for patients to access medicines at short notice.
Local advice is to plan ahead and order any repeat prescriptions as soon as possible before the start of the long weekend which is from the 24-26 August. A list of some local pharmacies open over the bank holiday weekend can be found on the NHS website.
The easiest way to order repeat prescriptions is via the NHS App or through your GP practice’s website by Friday 16 August to enable practices and pharmacies to have the prescription ready in time.
As well as ordering repeat medications, the NHS App 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.
Local pharmacists can give expert, confidential advice or medicines for minor ailments such as colds, tummy troubles and much more.
Keeping medicine cabinets stocked and planning for repeat prescriptions will ensure residents can make the most of the bank holiday weekend.
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 can have serious consequences, especially if you use them to control a heart condition, breathing problems or have a 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 only takes a few minutes 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.