Advice for a happy, healthy Easter

Ahead of the Easter bank holiday weekend, NHS Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale Clinical Commissioning Group (HMR CCG) is reminding residents to plan and order repeat prescriptions in good time, check local pharmacy opening hours and stock up on vital over-the-counter remedies.

Patients are advised to telephone their usual pharmacy before travelling as opening hours may vary during the holiday period; a PDF of local pharmacy times over the Easter weekend is available to download at the end of this article.

Some GP appointments will be available over the bank holiday weekend at extended hours hubs located across the borough. Patients can book in advance by contacting the Central Booking Service on 0161 763 8292.

Dr Chris Duffy, local GP and Chair of NHS Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale Clinical Commissioning Group (HMR CCG) said: “Easter is a busy bank holiday period for most people and some simple preparation can make sure avoidable illness doesn’t spoil the fun for anyone.

“Order and collect any repeat prescriptions in advance and remember many minor conditions can be easily treated if you have a well-stocked medicine cabinet at home. Pharmacists should be your first stop for common problems including mild eczema, coughs and colds, minor cuts and bruises, constipation and indigestion. They can give expert medical advice and help with lots of everyday ailments. If you do need to see a GP, our extended hours hubs are offering appointments over the bank holiday weekend.

“If you urgently need medical help or advice, but don’t have a 999 emergency, you can call NHS 111 and speak to a highly trained adviser. Medical help or advice is also available from 111 online using your smartphone, laptop or other digital device.

“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.”

The 111 online service is free to use and helps to direct you to the right care:

• 111.nhs.uk

For more information on booking an extended hours appointment, visit:

• www.hmr.nhs.uk/your-health/there-for-you/

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