Festive prescription warning issued to patients

PATIENTS in Charnwood are being urged not to leave it too late to order their repeat prescriptions this Christmas.

Last year almost 150 people in the county left themselves without their repeat medicine over Christmas and New Year. So the area’s clinical commissioning groups are issuing the reminder so that people can have a healthy Christmas without worrying about vital medication.

Many GP practices will have limited opening hours during the Christmas holidays and the majority of pharmacies will also be closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

Dr James Ogle, GP in West Leicestershire said: “Many people with long term conditions rely on their prescribed medication to help them keep their condition under control.

“So it’s important that patients have their medicine at hand. With GP practices and many pharmacists closed over the Christmas bank holidays, I urge patients to order repeat prescriptions as early as possible so that the festive season can be enjoyed in good health. Please also remind any elderly relatives who are coming to visit.”

Many minor conditions can also be treated with a well-stocked medicine cabinet. Doctors recommend that everyone puts pain relief, antihistamines, anti-diarrhoea tablets, indigestion remedies and a first aid kit on their Christmas shopping list.

Dr Ogle added: “Now is also a good time to double check that home medicine cabinets are well stocked with over-the-counter remedies so that minor illnesses and injuries can be managed at home. Local pharmacies can provide useful advice and deal with minor ailments without people having to see their GP about winter bugs.”