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As Christmas fast approaches, NHS North East Lincolnshire CCG is reminding people what to do if their holiday doesn’t go to plan.

Dr Rakesh Pathak, local GP and member of North East Lincolnshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) explained:

“If you do need to contact medical services over the long weekend, remember, in most instances, people really don’t need A&E or 999. Simply calling the Single Point of Access on 01472 256 256 will give you access to confidential advice and information over the telephone 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

“If you are ill and have any questions about your health or if you think you need to see a GP over the bank holiday weekend then ring 01472 256 256. You will get through to a fully trained call adviser, who is supported by experienced clinicians. They will ask you questions to assess your symptoms and give you the healthcare advice you need or direct you to the most appropriate local service.

“Alternatively, you can pop to a local pharmacy for confidential and expert advice on common health conditions such as a cold or upset stomach. Details of pharmacies that are open over the Christmas break can be found here. This helps the local NHS keep emergency services free for those that need them the most.

“Look after yourself. You can often self-treat many minor illnesses and injuries at home by keeping your medicine cabinet and first aid kit well-stocked with medicines such as paracetamol and ibuprofen. Most simple ailments will begin to get better within a couple of days.”

If you are on repeat medication then we strongly recommend you plan ahead and make sure you have enough medication to last when your GP surgery may be closed. Don’t use A&E as a back-up pharmacy, order enough to see you through when it’s a long weekend.”

For a list of pharmacy opening times for the Bank Holiday, please click here. Times are correct at time of publishing – please check with the pharmacy before travelling.

Remember, A&E and 999 services are for the management of life-threatening and emergency conditions only. This includes:

Symptoms of serious illness include:
• life threatening choking
• chest pain
• blacking out/unconsciousness
• severe blood loss
• severe breathing difficulty
• severe abdominal pain
• object lodged in nose or ear
• ingestion of poison or tablets
• fractures