20 March 2018

Plan ahead for Easter bank holiday

The Easter break is just around the corner and health leaders are urging people to plan ahead for the long bank holiday weekend (30 March - 2 April).

Many GP surgeries and pharmacies will be closed or operating at reduced hours during the bank holiday weekend, meaning it is important repeat prescriptions are collected well in advance and home medicine cabinets are stocked up with the basics needed to treat minor ailments and illnesses.

Dr Lesley Ward, Urgent Care Lead for Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire Clinical Commissioning Groups and local GP, said: "With Easter fast approaching it is important the public are as prepared as they can be.

"In the run up to the bank holiday speak to your local pharmacist. They are your healthcare experts on the high street and can advise on the basic over the counter medicines that can help treat minor conditions at home."

Minor injuries units, walk-in centres, out-of-hours GPs and emergency pharmacists will all be available over the Easter weekend, meaning A&E staff can treat those with a serious or life-threatening condition.

Dr Ward added: "There are a number of services available to everyone over the bank holiday. If you are unsure which service meets your needs, NHS 111 offers professional advice and guidance and is open 24 hours a day."

An online guide to local health services including self-care advice and details of emergency pharmacists, urgent care and emergency services is available on the Bristol CCG website.

The free Service Finder app is available on smartphones and offers on-the-go advice of local NHS services. Also download the HANDi app that provides expert advice and guidance on common childhood illnesses.

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