Prepare for a Happy, Healthy Easter Bank Holiday Weekend with NHS Guidance

As the Easter Bank Holiday weekend approaches from March 29 to April 1st, the NHS is urging patients to make sure they’re all set with their medical care plan. Just as with other holiday periods, some GP practices and pharmacies may have reduced opening hours during this time.

To prepare effectively, we advise patients to order any repeat prescriptions in advance.

Make sure to check your medication supplies and order any necessary repeats at least a week before they run out. This proactive step allows ample time for prescriptions to be processed and any potential issues to be addressed before the holiday weekend begins.

If you find yourself in need of medical advice or assistance that is not an emergency, the NHS recommends using the NHS 111 service. It is easily accessible and all you need to do is visit 111.nhs.uk or call 111. This service has trained healthcare professionals available 24 hours a day – 7 days a week who can guide you on the best course of action to suit your medical needs.

Dr Paul Edmondson-Jones, Chief Medical Officer in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent, highlights the importance of proactive measures during holiday periods.

Dr Edmondson-Jones states, “NHS 111 often experiences an increase in calls related to medication supply issues during busy bank holiday periods. To help reduce this pressure on NHS services, we can all take proactive steps.”

“Restocking medicines for minor ailments and making sure you’ve ordered your prescription on time can help you to avoid having a medication shortage”.

The NHS has made ordering prescriptions even easier by creating the NHS App, on there you can request repeat prescriptions straight away from your practice and cut out the long waiting time.”

“It’s important to make sure you have enough medicine at home if you have any long-term conditions like Asthma or Diabetes. This can help avoid serious problems that might land you in the hospital. To stay safe, try to order your prescriptions at least seven days before you need them. This gives your doctor and pharmacy enough time to get everything ready for you.”

To avoid running out of medication during the holiday period, patients are reminded to allow seven days from ordering before collecting prescriptions, enabling GP practices and pharmacies sufficient time to prepare.

Additionally, pharmacists are available to offer health advice and information without the need for an appointment. Patients can find their local pharmacy and check opening hours using the ‘Find a Pharmacy’ service on the NHS website or by referring to the list of Pharmacy opening times.

As we approach the Easter Bank Holiday weekend, let’s prioritise our health by planning and following these guidelines provided by the NHS. Please share this message with friends and family. Together, we can ensure a safe and healthy holiday period.