Use pharmacies over bank holiday, plea

Services experience significant pressure over bank holidays — but help is at hand for those who need it.

GP practices will be closed at the weekend and on Bank Holiday Monday, though health advisors can be reached by dialling NHS 111 and these will find a GP, if needed urgently.

Several pharmacies will be open when other health services and shops are shut, for those needing over-the-counter medicines.

Pharmacists can give highly qualified advice on medicine, provide treatment for common ailments and give lifestyle advice without the need to see a GP.

Conditions which pharmacists can address include colds, sprains, skin conditions, stomach trouble and allergies.

Dr David Clitherow, GP lead for urgent care at NHS Rotherham CCG, said: “Most ailments and illnesses, such as coughs, colds, sore throats, aches and pains can be self-treated at home with a well-stocked medicines cabinet.

“NHS 111 and pharmacists are highly qualified to give advice on a wide range of common health problems and the beat way to treat them.

“However, if your symptoms are severe and won’t go away then there are doctors available when your own practice is closed to provide advice.”

He added: “Most people, especially children, get coughs and colds, however pharmacists can prescribe free oral paracetamol.

“The best way to look after someone with a cold or cough is to make sure they have plenty to drink and if they have a temperature, paracetamol will help.

“You do not need to visit a doctor — instead, if the symptoms persist, you should contact your pharmacy to get the right medicine for your illness.

“Choosing the right treatment over the next couple of weeks will help patients get better quicker and help clinicians to help those in most need of medical attention.”

To find out more about how pharmacists can help over the bank holiday, visit www.rotherhamccg.nhs.uk/pharmacy.