Stock up on medicines for holidays say health chiefs
RESIDENTS are being advised to keep a well-stocked medicine cabinet at home and know where to go for appropriate medical care and advice during the Christmas and New Year holidays.
Local health leaders have said it’s important to stay well during the festive period as winter illnesses can become serious.
Dr Aggy York, local GP and Clinical Lead for Primary Care at HMR CCG, said: “It’s important for local people to look after themselves and family and friends at this time of year, as traditionally we see an increase in coughs, colds and flu symptoms.
“Order and collect any repeat prescriptions in advance of the holiday season and remember many minor conditions can be easily treated if you have a well-stocked medicine cabinet at home.”
For a happy and healthy festive period and for protection against illness, residents should ensure they stock up on over the counter remedies such as painkillers, antihistamines and indigestion treatments as well as ensuring they have a fully stocked first aid kit to help treat minor cuts, sprains and bruises.
Dr York added: “When medical care and advice is needed it’s important that people know where to go for help. By choosing the right service, patients will get the best treatment in the shortest possible time – whilst keeping emergency health services available for emergencies and life threatening conditions.
“Pharmacists should be your first stop for common problems including coughs and colds, minor cuts and bruises, constipation and indigestion. They can give expert medical advice and help with lots of everyday ailments, no appointment necessary. If you do need to see a GP, our extended hours hubs are offering appointments over the festive period.
“If you urgently need medical help or advice, but don’t have a 999 emergency, you can call NHS 111 and speak to a highly trained adviser. Medical help or advice is also available from 111 online using your smartphone, laptop or other digital device. The service is free to use and helps to direct you to the right care, first time.”
December 23rd, 24th, 27th, 30th and 31st are normal working days so GP surgeries will be open as usual from 8am until 6.30pm.
Appointments will be available at ‘seven day access hubs’ in Rochdale borough on December 25 (6.30pm - 9pm) and 8am - 6pm on December 26 and January 1 2020.
At all other times, GP and nurse appointments are available in the evening and at weekends at the ‘seven day access hubs’. To book an appointment at an extended hours hub, call the central booking line on 0161 763 8292.
On Christmas Day, the Wellfield Pharmacy, on Oldham Road will be open from 10am-2pm and the Unicare Pharmacy, on Smithybridge Road, Littleborough, will be open from 4-8pm.
On Boxing Day, Asda Pharmacy, on Dane Street (9am-6pm), Boots, on Market Way (9am-5pm) and Morrisons Pharmacy, Kingsway (10am-4pm) will all be open.
The Asda and Morrisons pharmacies will also be open on New Year’s Day, from 10am-5pn and 10am-4pm, respectively.