Scots are reminded to check GP surgery opening times

Scots are reminded to check GP surgery opening times

NHS Scotland’s ‘Be Health-Wise this Winter’ campaign is advising people across Lothian to be aware that many GP surgeries and pharmacies will be closed over Christmas and New Year, and what steps they should take to prepare.

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 in advance what local services are available, in case they fall ill.

“Your local surgery and pharmacies will have information but you can find your closest open services quickly and easily at the touch of a button, using Scotland’s Service Directory on NHSinform.scot.

“Check you have enough medicine at home to help you help you feel better if you are unlucky enough to catch a cough, cold, flu or upset tummy over the festive season.

“The most common winter illnesses can be looked after at home with things like cold and flu remedies, and pain relief like paracetamol or ibuprofen, which can be bought in liquid form if you have youngsters at home.

“Self-help guides are also available at NHSinform.scot, which offer safe advice on treating common illnesses and conditions, including: coughs, headaches and flu.  If your symptoms worsen, despite trying simple remedies, or you or a loved one is concerned you are getting more unwell, you should seek medical attention at your surgery when it’s open or by contacting NHS 24 on 111, when it is closed.”

The Be Health-Wise campaign stresses that a few simple steps can help people stay well.

Dr Ryan said: “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. If you do happen to run out of medicines, contact your nearest pharmacy in the first instance as they should be able to assist.”

General advice and information on how to stay healthy this winter can be found at www.nhsinform.scot or contact NHS inform Health Information Advisors on 0800 22 44 88.

The three key steps that Be Health-Wise this Winter is recommending everyone take in preparation for their health this winter are: 

• Make sure you have over the counter remedies at home.
• Don’t forget your repeat prescription. Order only what you need in plenty of time.
• Check when your GP practice and local pharmacy are open over the holidays.