An Essex GP is urging people to avoid the added festive stress of arranging repeat prescriptions at the last minute by sorting them out now.
Dr Anna Davey, GP lead for NHS Mid and South Essex, said every year GP practices see a last-minute rush leading up to the festive season. People are left panicked as they worry about picking up their repeat prescription before GP practices and pharmacies close over the bank holidays.
Dr Davey said: “Christmas is a busy time for many of us as we rush around preparing for the big day. With so much to think about, too often we forget about those everyday necessities. That’s why every year we see lots of people anxiously coming in to ask about arranging their repeat prescription.”
It’s not just GP practices and pharmacies that see rising demand in the run up to the holidays. Use of NHS 111 online also rises in December, and last year almost 16% off all queries were from people needing to arrange an urgent repeat prescription.
Falling behind on an urgent repeat prescription risks leaving people without essential medication when they need it most and also puts unnecessary pressure on NHS services.
Dr Davey added: “Don’t forget to check whether you will have enough medication over the festive period. If you do need more, don’t wait, let your GP practice know or use the NHS app. Remember, you should order your repeat prescription at least seven working days before you run out.”
GP practices and most pharmacies will be closed on the bank holidays over Christmas and New Year. NHS Mid and South Essex advises that people check NHS 111 online if they need urgent help or call 111. The 111 service directs people to the most appropriate NHS service to help them if they need it.
The 111 online symptom checker and phone line are open 24 hours a day. Emergency lines are also always open 24 hours a day for serious and life-threatening emergencies.
In case of a mental health crisis, adults can call NHS 111 and select the option for mental health at any time. Young people under 18 can call 0800 995 1000.