As local healthcare services prepare for the busy August bank holiday, a local GP is asking people to be prepared and use NHS services wisely over the long weekend.
Dr Anna Davey, GP lead for NHS Mid and South Essex, says it is important that people know what to do in the event of illness or injury and are prepared to manage minor injuries at home. Last August, almost 15% of callers to NHS 111 were advised to self-care, so planning ahead to make sure you have medication to treat those minor conditions and illnesses at home before the weekend is key.
In late August people want to enjoy the warmer weather while it lasts. Getting out and about, meeting people and doing something more active is great for your health as long as you are prepared.
Being prepared means you can keep enjoying your time off even if you pick up a slight injury or bout of sickness. Make sure you have medicines on hand for a bit of quick first aid. Make sure you have basics like pain medication, plasters and treatment for indigestion. Antihistamines can help with allergies like hay fever and can also help with insect bites, and antiseptic can help with any wounds.
If we do see some sun, make sure you’ve put on some sunscreen and remember to drink plenty of water.
Dr Anna Davey, GP lead for NHS Mid and South Essex
Dr Davey says that you can buy most of what you might need from your local supermarket or pharmacy. Just bear in mind that they may have different opening hours over the bank holiday weekend, so it is best to check opening times online at NHS Find a Pharmacy before travelling.
With over 190 community pharmacies across mid and south Essex, patients can also access convenient health advice, support and treatment where needed for seven common minor illnesses under the Pharmacy First service. Pharmacists are experts in medicines who can provide trusted advice to help you manage minor illnesses and are trained to signpost you to the most appropriate NHS service if you need further help.
NHS Mid and South Essex advises people to check NHS 111 online if they need urgent help or call 111. The 111 service directs people to the most appropriate NHS service near them that can help based on their symptoms.
The 111 online symptom checker and phone line are open 24 hours a day. Emergency lines are also 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.
For more information on bank holiday services and looking after personal healthcare over the weekend, visit the NHS Mid and South Essex website.