A NATIONAL health campaign is reminding people across Scotland to be prepared for GP surgery closures over the festive holidays.
The NHSScotland Be Health-Wise this Winter campaign advises people to be aware that many GP surgeries and pharmacies will be closed for four days at Christmas (Saturday 23rd to Tuesday 26th December), and again for four days at New Year (Saturday 30th December to Tuesday 2nd January 2018).
Dr Laura Ryan, Medical Director of NHS 24, said: “Over the holidays the opening times of GP surgeries and pharmacies will be different so it’s important people know what local services are available, just in case they fall ill. You can find your local services using the national directory at www.nhsinform.scot.
“If you are unlucky enough to get a cough, cold or flu, buying over the counter medicine, staying at home and keeping warm will make you feel much better. Of course, if your symptoms worsen, you should seek a routine doctor’s appointment or contact NHS 24.”
Many GPs will be working hard throughout the festive period supporting local Out of Hours services. Dr Ryan said a few simple steps can help people stay well: “The most common winter illnesses can be looked after at home with things like cold and flu remedies, rehydration salts in case of upset stomachs and pain relief like paracetamol or ibuprofen, in liquid form if you have youngsters at home. Knowing when local services such as the community pharmacy and GP surgery are open can save you a lot of time and worry over the holidays, and it means out of hours services are there for when you really need them.”
General advice and information on how to stay healthy this winter can be found at www.nhsinform.scot or contact NHS inform on 0800 22 44 88.
The four key steps that Be Health-Wise this Winter is recommending everyone take in preparation for their health this winter are:
Be prepared for common illnesses with at-home remedies e.g. pain relief and rehydration salts
Many children and adults pick up common winter ailments such as a colds, flu-like illness or upset tummies. These can often be effectively treated at home with readily available medicine. Parents are reminded to have remedies that are suitable for children.
Make sure you check any repeat prescription
If you or someone you care for requires medicines regularly, make sure you have enough medicine to last over the Christmas holiday period but please don’t over order. Remember to pick it up in plenty of time too.
Know when your GP surgery and local pharmacy will be open
Your community pharmacist is a good local resource and they can help if you have run out of any prescribed medication. They can also help with a range of minor illnesses such as impetigo and certain urinary tract infections. Your pharmacist can also advise on what’s best to have in your medicine cupboard for minor ailments or illnesses.
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