Preston and Lancashire urged to plan ahead for Easter weekend by NHS

People living in Lancashire are being encouraged to be ready for Easter by planning ahead by ordering repeat prescriptions and using the most appropriate NHS service.

Doctors’ surgeries will be closed over the Easter weekend, including on Good Friday and Easter Monday on 15th and 18th April.

The public are urged to to visit 111.nhs.uk or call 111 for urgent care needs, where they will be signposted to the most appropriate service, including a walk-in centre, pharmacy or out of hours GP appointment.

In a life-threatening situation, people should always call 999.

A number of pharmacies will remain open and can help people deal with minor ailments and illnesses, and provide expert advice. To find your nearest pharmacy and when it is open, visit www.healthierlsc.co.uk/latest-news/easter-pharmacy-2022

By re-stocking their medicine cabinets if needed, knowing when their GP surgery is open, and planning ahead for any necessary repeat prescriptions, people can ensure they make the most of the Easter holiday.

If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, the 24/7 Crisis Line is available on 0800 953 0110.

Dr Peter Gregory, associate medical director for Lancashire and South Cumbria, said: “The Easter holiday period can be a very busy time for NHS services, and using the 111 service online will help us treat patients in the right setting. This could also help keep staff free to deal with serious or life-threatening emergencies.

“It is also worth checking your general medicine cabinet before the bank holiday to make sure it is well stocked with essentials such as paracetamol, cough and cold remedies, antihistamines, and plasters and bandages.

“These can all be bought cheaply from supermarkets or pharmacies and your local pharmacist can also provide free, confidential, expert advice and treatment for a variety of common complaints.”

Kath Gulson, executive chair of Community Pharmacy Lancashire, said: “Making sure you have the right medicines could make all the difference.

“Taking daily medication is an important part of treatment for those with long-term health problems such as asthma and diabetes.

“People can be seriously ill if they run out of medicines and may need to be admitted to hospital, which can be avoided by ordering your prescription early.”

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