Being prepared means you could spend less time seeking help if you do become ill and more time with your family and friends – in addition you could be freeing up local services so they are available for people who may have a more urgent need.
There are some simple tips to follow to help be prepared
- If you are likely to run out of medicines, give your practice enough time to prepare any repeat prescriptions
- Stock up your medicine cabinet with common remedies such as ibuprofen or paracetamol
- Make sure you know where your local pharmacist is and what times they are open over the break
Minor ailments such as coughs and colds are commonplace over the winter and can’t be treated with antibiotics. The best course of action is to rest, drink plenty of fluids, try to have at least one hot meal a day to keep your energy levels up and talk to your pharmacist for advice on getting any pain relief you need.
Katherine Gough, Chief Pharmacist with NHS Dorset CCG “In the run up to the Christmas break we have been putting a lot of information out locally asking people to make sure they use the right care when they become ill. Put simply, making the right choice could mean the difference between spending hours in a medical waiting room or spending it with your family and friends.
To help local people who may have persistent physical or mental health problems or concerns, many GP practices will be opening extended hours over the break and can offer appointments to people who aren’t registered at the practice”.
Full details of extended GP opening hours can be found at www.staywelldorset.nhs.uk.
