Latest News

We are lucky enough to be able to enjoy two long weekends in May and although we are not always blessed with the lovely weather something you can guarantee is that there will be advice and treatment available locally if you or your family are unwell or injured.

If you have made plans for the long weekends and take regular medication then please think ahead and have order repeat prescriptions on your list of things to do, to ensure that you have enough medicine in advance.

When unexpected injuries or illness alter your plans then there is a range of options for you to choose from. If it is not an emergency but you feel you should see a health professional as a matter of urgency then you should phone the Single Point of Access on 01472 256 256 for advice on the best treatment for you.

This service provides confidential advice and information over the phone 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and trained advisers who are supported by experienced clinicians will assess your need and give you advice or direct you to the appropriate local service.

If you are suffering from a minor ailment such as a stomach upset, a migraine, a cough, sore throat or cold and other health conditions then you can receive expert confidential advice and medicine from your local pharmacist to treat these symptoms and feel better.

Following advice from your pharmacist, you can practice self-care at home for many common illnesses and injuries you and your family suffer. You just need to keep a well-stocked medicine cabinet and remember your first aid kit for when you are travelling and are outdoors. If you’re not sure what you might need your local pharmacy will be able to advise you or you can get advice on basic medicines online at NHS Choices http://www.nhs.uk/livewell/pharmacy/pages/yourmedicinecabinet.aspx

You can find out which pharmacies are open for both bank holidays here. Pharmacy Opening Times - May Bank Holiday The dates and times are correct at the time of publishing but please check with the pharmacy before visiting.

Dr Peter Melton, local GP and Clinical Chief Officer for the CCG explained. “A little planning ahead could save you a lot of time and trouble in terms of health care for you and your family.  If you are going away for a welcome break for the weekend - don't forget to pack your prescription medicine and order repeat prescriptions in advance.”

He added, “Demand for health care is continually high and we all need to do the little things that we can in terms of choosing other NHS health care services that are available and learning to self-care with medicine and advice from local pharmacists and SPA advisers. Please do what you can and take control of your healthcare at home and let’s help keep emergency services such as A&E, 999 and out of hours GP services free for those that need them the most.”

For more information on alternatives to A&E and how you can choose well and ease the pressure on the NHS emergency services visit http://www.northeastlincolnshireccg.nhs.uk/your-health-wellbeing/choosewell/