With the Spring Bank Holiday weekend coming up and the promise of summer in the air, Gloucestershire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) is advising people to make sure they have supplies of any prescriptions and medicines they need.

Teresa Middleton, Head of Pharmacy for Gloucestershire CCG, said:

“Doctors’ surgeries will be closed on the Bank Holiday, so please remember to plan ahead and order any repeat prescriptions you will need before the Bank Holiday – and remember to take them with you if you are planning a trip away. You can also treat some minor, everyday illnesses yourself, so I would recommend keeping supplies of a few medicines such as paracetamol at home.”

Pharmacists are experts on medicine and how they work and can give advice on basic health issues such as coughs, colds, sore throats, aches and pains, sprains, stomach upsets, allergies, hay fever and emergency contraception. They can advise you on whether you need to call or visit other NHS services, and can help if you do find that you have run out of your prescription. To find your nearest pharmacist, visit: www.choosewellglos.nhs.uk

Local GP, Dr Charles Buckley, said:  

“Please help yourself and people who are very ill by being prepared to deal with less serious problems at home when appropriate. Stock up on some simple medications before the bank holiday, and if you do need help, please choose the appropriate service that can deal quickly with your problem. The Choose Well website gives excellent advice – please visit it at www.choosewellglos.nhs.uk before making a call to A&E or your doctor.”

If your symptoms do not respond to self-care or advice from your pharmacist and you have medical concerns, contact your GP surgery. During Out of Hours times, your call will be diverted or you will receive advice on the answerphone about calling the Out of Hours medical service.

Minor Injury Units, located at Gloucestershire’s Community Hospitals, can treat a variety of minor injuries and illness. Details of their locations can be found at: http://www.nhsglos.nhs.uk/your-services/minor-injury-units/