Published on: 26 April 2024
NHS Herefordshire and Worcestershire is reminding people how to access NHS services during the upcoming May Bank Holidays.
Healthcare bosses across the two counties are urging you to order your repeat prescriptions as early as possible. By using the right service and being prepared, you can ensure that care is available to those who need it most. To help the NHS cope with the anticipated demand, healthcare professionals are urging people to use services wisely.
People are advised to first contact 111 online for non-life-threatening health needs, and to only use 999 for life-threatening emergencies.
There may be a change in opening times for some NHS services, including GP practices and pharmacies, so it’s important to get organised and think ahead.
Find your local pharmacy here: Find a pharmacy - NHS (www.nhs.uk)
Dr Will Taylor, Medical Director for NHS Herefordshire and Worcestershire said: “It’s important to plan ahead and make sure you’re fully prepared for the bank holiday weekends.
"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.
“People should only be using 999 and A&E for genuine life-threatening emergencies and using NHS 111 for other care needs- or if you’re unsure about whether you should go to hospital.”
NHS 111 is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year online at 111.nhs.uk or by calling 111 for any urgent but not life-threatening medical needs. Trained advisers 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.”
