News and media releases from North West Surrey
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Help us help you this Easter
The NHS in Surrey is reminding the public where to go should they become unwell over the Easter period.
GP surgeries and accident and emergency departments are expected to be busy during this time which is why it is so important that the public use the right service for their health concern.
Professor Andrew Rhodes, Joint Chief Medical Officer at Surrey Heartlands NHS said:
We want everyone to enjoy the long bank holiday weekend and Easter holidays, whilst remaining safe and healthy.
Should you become unwell, please make sure you are using the right service so that those who need emergency care over the bank holiday can be seen as quickly as possible.
For non-emergencies, the NHS 111 service can be contacted either by phone or online where they will triage patients to the most appropriate service.
Whilst pharmacies are open during the long weekend, GP surgeries are not, so do plan ahead with any repeat medication you may need to prevent you becoming unwell.
The public are also being encouraged to ‘Think Pharmacy First’ and visit their local pharmacy for minor health concerns.
If you or a member of your family are feeling unwell with a minor health concern such as an ear infection, impetigo, insect bites, shingles, sinusitis, sore throats or urine infections, please visit your local pharmacy and ask for a consultation in the first instance.
You’ll receive advice and even medication, if you need it, getting you on the road to recovery sooner.
Easter Bank Holiday Pharmacy Opening Hours
There are also mental health services available over the bank holiday weekend to support anyone in need.
For urgent support you can call the 24/7 Mental Health Crisis Helpline on 0800 915 4644. Safe Havens are also available across the county for out-of-hours care.
More information is available on the Surrey and Borders website.
Alternatively, you can contact the Samaritans on 116 123.
Top tips ahead of the bank holiday weekend:
- Check your medicines and ensure you are requesting any repeat prescriptions in time.
- Ensure you have medicines in your cupboard for minor ailments should you need them.
- Practice good hygiene by washing your hands thoroughly to reduce the spread of viruses such as norovirus and flu.
- Buy medicines to treat minor illnesses, such as hay fever and allergies, over the counter at pharmacies or supermarkets without the need for a prescription.