Healthcare options ahead of August bank holiday

Posted on August 19th, 2024

With the August bank holiday fast approaching, patients are reminded to plan ahead by ordering any repeat prescriptions they may need.

The NHS is advising that repeat prescriptions should be ordered seven days ahead of the bank holiday to allow enough time for prescriptions to be processed and for any potential issues to be addressed before the holidays.

Using the NHS App is the quickest and easiest way to order repeat prescriptions at a time that is convenient to you, and it puts you in greater control of your own health. You can also use it to choose which pharmacy you’d like your medication to be sent to, and to track the progress of your order.

If you require medical advice or assistance but it’s not an emergency, you can use the NHS 111 service by visiting 111.nhs.uk or call 111 to speak to a trained healthcare professional who will guide you on the best course of action.

For advice and treatment for minor health concerns, people can also use the ‘Pharmacy First’ service which allows pharmacists to assess and treat patients for common conditions – without the need for a GP appointment or prescription first.

Simply drop in to your local pharmacy and ask for advice – but do remember to call ahead to check their bank holiday opening hours. Search for your nearest pharmacy and opening times at: www.nhs.uk/find-a-pharmacy

Parents and carers are also reminded that if a child is unwell, you can visit the Alder Hey online symptom checker for helpful advice on how to treat your child at home, and when to seek further medical help. Go to: www.alderhey.nhs.uk/conditions/symptoms-checker

Urgent and Emergency Care Services