In the hectic run up to Christmas it’s easy to miss checking your medicine supplies. With this in mind GPs in Hull are asking people to collect their repeat prescriptions and make sure they have enough medication to last through the holiday period when some GP practices and pharmacies are closed.
New GP online services make it even easier for patients to order repeat prescriptions or book practice appointments from a smartphone, tablet or computer; saving them a trip to their surgery. People should ask about GP online services at their GP practice or visit the surgery’s website.
Many common ailments like headaches, heart burn and colds can be treated in the comfort of your own home. Stocking your medicine cabinet can help if someone starts to feel ill over the Christmas break.
Pharmacists are fully qualified to give advice on the best course of action to take should people start to feel unwell. You can see a pharmacist for a range of problems including coughs, colds, skin conditions, aches & pains and stomach complaints. They may offer you over-the-counter remedies and will be able to advise on medicines that are safe to use with any other medications you are already taking.
The Bransholme Urgent Care Centre (UCC) provides 24 hour care, every day of the year, for minor injuries such as minor fractures, sprains, strains, cuts, bites and minor burns.
People in need of immediate treatment, who are not in a life-threatening situation, can be seen quickly and effectively at the centre. People should use the UCC when they need treatment for an injury, which DOES NOT require a visit to A&E or a medical appointment.
Bransholme UCC also contains X-Ray facilities, helping to reduce pressure on A&E even further. The X-ray service is open Monday – Friday from 9am - 4pm and on
Saturday and Sunday from 10am - 6pm.
If you need medical treatment, but it’s not an emergency, please book an appointment with your regular GP. Check your GP’s website for Christmas opening hours.
If you need to see a GP with something that can’t wait till the next day there is a Walk-In Service at Story Street Medical Centre. Over the Christmas break the service will run from 8am-8pm every day, including Christmas Day.
For people who are still unsure where to go then they should ‘Talk before you walk’ and call NHS 111, a free to call 24/7 service that offers expert guidance and can advise where to go for medical help.
Dr James Crick, Consultant in Public Health Medicine/Associate Medical Director for NHS HULL CCG, said:
“If you take regular medication it is important to stock up in good time for the winter holidays. This will help you to stay well over the break.
“Make sure to keep warm as the cold can cause complications for some people, particularly those with an existing medical condition. Try to heat your home to at least 18c and wear several layers as this will hold more heat close to your body.”
“Finally, winter can be very busy for local health services. Please make sure you choose the right service for your needs. If you’re unsure where to go you can always call NHS 111 for advice.”
For more local information and advice on how to stay well over winter visit www.staywellthiswinter.co.uk
