Prescriptions outlets, and minor medical help, over the Easter holiday

News from our partners Shropshire Clinical Commissioning Group

The NHS across Shropshire, and Telford and Wrekin, is urging people not to be caught out by the early Easter holiday, when most GP surgeries are closed.

In particular they should:

• Make sure they have enough of their usual prescription medicines
• Stock up on over-the-counter remedies and First Aid items from your local pharmacy
• Know which services are available even if your GP surgery is shut.

Dr Julian Povey, Pontesbury GP and Clinical Chair for NHS Shropshire Clinical Commissioning Group said:

“During Bank Holidays we tend to see an increase in calls to our out-of-hours GP service from people who have simply forgotten to re-order prescription medicines such as asthma inhalers. It’s not a good use of this valuable service and can cause delays for someone who really needs to see a GP.”

Dr Michael Innes, Stirchley GP and Chair of NHS Telford and Wrekin Clinical Commissioning Group, said:

“A quick visit to your local pharmacy now can also ensure you are well-equipped to deal with a range of conditions like colds and flu, indigestion, back pain, coughs, headaches and migraines and skin complaints such as dermatitis. You can also stock up on items to treat minor injuries.”

There is a holiday pharmacy rota operating in Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin. Copies are attached or are available from www.telfordccg.nhs.uk or www.shropshireccg.nhs.uk.

Help and advice is also available 24-hours-a-day by ringing NHS 111 (just dial 111) for free.

Patients can also call the out-of-hours GP service, Shropdoc, when their own surgery is closed on 0333 222 66 55.

Minor Injuries Units are also available in Bridgnorth, Ludlow, Oswestry and Whitchurch. Details of opening times can be found at www.shropscommunityhealth.nhs.uk.