With the August bank holiday weekend just two weeks away, we are reminding people to make sure they have enough medication.
Opening times of local pharmacies and GP practices may vary during the bank holiday weekend. People are therefore encouraged to arrange their repeat prescriptions with plenty of time to spare.
Ahead of public holidays, GP practices and pharmacies can see an increase in people trying to arrange their repeat prescriptions. This can lead to higher numbers of prescriptions waiting to be dispensed and longer queues.
To avoid queues and anxiety over getting your medication in time, make sure you arrange your repeat prescription sooner rather than later. Make sure you order at least seven working days before you run out.
Residents can also use the NHS app for faster ordering without having to contact your GP practice.
Advice and Pharmacy First
As well as helping with repeat prescriptions, pharmacists can provide advice on a range of health conditions.
Most community pharmacies in mid and south Essex can offer NHS treatment for seven common conditions without patients needing to see a GP. These are:
- earache (for those aged between 1 and 17),
- impetigo
- infected insect bites
- shingles
- sinusitis
- sore throat
- urinary tract infections (UTIs) for women aged 16-64 years
Age restrictions apply, please see our pharmacy page for more information.
Pharmacists can also provide advice or signpost to other local services when the need arises.
August bank holiday advice
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 our bank holiday services page.