A CHRISTMAS message from Dr Jonathan Wells, chair of the CCG.
WITH the festive season now upon us, this can be a very busy time of year both at work and at home.
A lot of time is taken up planning holiday travel, seeing friends and family and getting all your shopping done.
But it’s just as important, especially if you’ve got a long term condition such as diabetes or a heart condition to order you prescriptions well before the holidays begin.
Some local pharmacies may be offering reduced opening hours over the Christmas period, and it’s important to plan ahead, especially if the winter weather means it’s harder for you to get out and about.
Your local pharmacist can offer you free, qualified health advice at any time, and no appointment is necessary. From coughs and colds to aches and pains, they can give you expert help on everyday illnesses and answer any questions about prescribed and over-the-counter medicines.
The last thing anyone wants over the holidays is to be ill. Unfortunately, every winter, colds, flu, stomach bugs and other ailments are all too common.
By being prepared and making sure you have a well-stocked medicine cabinet including basics like painkillers, cold and flu remedies, plasters and tissues, you can help to avoid a minor illness getting worse. So it’s worth taking the time now to check the stock that you already have, so you don’t get into trouble over the festive period.
GP practices will also be offering reduced hours over the Christmas period, so make sure you’re aware of your health service options if you become injured or unwell. NHS 111 will be available throughout the holidays and Minor Injury Units will also be available to treat cuts, grazes, sprains and minor burns.
Visit www.redditchandbromsgroveccg.nhs.uk for information about GP practice and pharmacy opening times over the Christmas period.
Merry Christmas and have a happy and healthy 2015
