HEALTHCARE bosses are reminding people that the NHS remains open and available to anyone who needs it over the Bank Holiday.
People are reminded that if they need medical help, but it is not a life-threatening emergency, there are options available that can help as demand on local hospital emergency departments, the ambulance service and GPs across the county continues to grow beyond pre-pandemic levels.
Dr Will Taylor, chief medical officer of NHS Herefordshire and Worcestershire said: “It’s important to plan ahead and make sure you’re fully prepared for the bank holiday weekend.
“There are a number of different things people can do to be ready, for example, collect your repeat prescription in good time, keep your medicine cabinet stocked and know which healthcare services are available to you.
“If you need help when your local GP surgery is not open, you can call 111, which is a free NHS Service and can quickly direct you to the right health service, including out of hours GP appointments. Pharmacists can also help with a range of common conditions and minor injuries.”
People are reminded to think NHS 111 first, this means calling 111 or visiting 111.nhs.uk for any urgent but not life-threatening illnesses or injuries.
Trained advisers can direct people to the best possible care for their needs, including arranging an out-of-hours GP appointment or an appointment time to attend A&E or a Minor Injury Unit.
Local pharmacists can also give expert, confidential advice as well as medicines for minor ailments such as colds, tummy troubles and much more.
Local pharmacies open on Bank Holiday Monday are:
Redditch – Boots, Kingfisher Shopping Centre, 10am to 5pm
Redditch – Tesco Pharmacy, Coldfield Drive, 9am to 1pm
