Published on: 24 August 2022
Healthcare bosses across Herefordshire and Worcestershire are reminding people that even over the Bank Holiday weekend the NHS remains open and available to anyone who needs it.
The public are reminded that if they need medical help, but it is not a life-threatening emergency, there are options available that can help. Demand on local hospital emergency departments, the ambulance service and GPs across the two counties 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.
“We are seeing increased pressure on all our services and we are asking people for their support – to access the right NHS service for their need. 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.”
There will be a change in opening times for some NHS services, including GP practices and pharmacies, with some closures over the summer bank holiday weekend.
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. Getting you to the right person to give you the right care with the shortest possible wait.
Local pharmacists can also give expert, confidential advice as well as medicines for minor ailments such as colds, tummy troubles and much more. Check local pharmacy opening hours: NHS England — Midlands » Bank Holiday pharmacy opening times
