Spring bank holiday health advice for Rochdale residents

Dr Chris Duffy

With the Spring Bank Holiday around the corner, NHS Heywood Middleton and Rochdale Clinical Commissioning Group (HMR CCG) is urging the people of Rochdale to think about their healthcare, plan ahead and know where to go for appropriate medical advice and treatment over the bank holiday weekend.

There will be changes to opening times for local healthcare services over the bank holiday weekend, including some closures on Monday 29 May. Local GPs are advising Rochdale residents to check opening hours, stock up on over the counter remedies and get repeat prescriptions before the spring bank holiday weekend.

The full list of HMR pharmacies that will be open on the spring bank holiday can be viewed here. Patients are advised to telephone their usual pharmacy before travelling.

Local people are reminded that some local GP appointments will be available at four ‘extended hours hubs’ across the borough over the bank holiday weekend. The hubs are based at Littleborough Health Centre; The Phoenix Centre, Heywood; Rochdale Infirmary; and Middleton Health Centre. Patients can book in advance by contacting their own GP surgery or by ringing the Central Booking Service on 0161 763 8292. For more information, click here.

The NHS 111 service is also available for people who urgently need medical help or advice, but do not have a life-threatening situation.

Dr Chris Duffy, local GP and Chairman of NHS Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale CCG, said: “No one wants ill health to ruin the bank holiday weekend, that’s why it’s very important for people across Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale to know where they should go to get the right treatment if they are unwell and be aware there are a number of options available.

“Many minor conditions can be easily treated if you have a well-stocked medicine cabinet at home. Pharmacists can give expert medical advice on everyday ailments including coughs and colds, sunburn, minor cuts and bruises, and indigestion. If you do need to see a GP or nurse, our extended hours hubs offer appointments over the bank holiday weekend.

“The NHS 111 service for non-emergencies is available 24/7 and is fast, easy and free. Call 111 and you will be asked a series of questions to assess your symptoms and directed to the best medical care for you.

“It’s also worth reminding people to take care of any repeat prescriptions and check when local pharmacies are open.

“By choosing the right service, patients will get the best treatment in the shortest possible time - whilst keeping emergency health services available for emergencies and life threatening conditions. Using services wisely is crucial, particularly at the moment, as the NHS in Greater Manchester remains busy following the recent incident at the Manchester Arena.”