LOCAL doctors are urging residents to order repeat prescriptions early to cover the Christmas and New Year period.
Many GP practices and pharmacies will have limited opening hours between Christmas and New Year, so patients, especially those with long-term conditions are encouraged to order and collect their repeat prescriptions in plenty of time.
Repeat prescriptions can be ordered online by using GP Online Services, a simple service that can also be used to make and cancel appointments and view medical records. If you are not already registered, you can find out more or ask for a registration form from your GP Surgery. If you take two forms of photo ID in to the surgery, they can sign you up there and then.
Dr Carl Ellson, Strategic Clinical Lead for the three Worcestershire CCGs, said: “In order to stay well, patients should make sure they have enough medicine for over the Christmas and New Year period.
“It’s really important for those that have problems walking, are elderly or frail, particularly if the weather takes a turn and we have ice or snow. No one wants to end up being admitted to hospital over the festive break, so now’s the time to get organised.”
Alongside regular medication, it’s a good idea to keep a well-stocked medicine cabinet, this should include the following:
A first-aid kit including bandages, plasters, thermometer, antiseptic, eyewash solution, sterile dressings, medical tape for dressings and tweezers
Pain relief such as aspirin, paracetamol and ibuprofen for aches, pains and high temperatures
Oral rehydration salts to replace lost minerals and fluid after a fever or vomiting and diarrhoea.
If you require a GP/nurse appointment outside of normal working hours, contact your GP Surgery to discuss improved access appointments in Worcestershire. Please note that appointments outside of usual surgery times may be with another GP or at another practice.
For more information about staying well this winter, visit www.worcestershire.nhs.uk/winter
