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Make sure
that you have a prescription for any repeat medication you may need over
Easter.
An advertising campaign was launched this week to
encourage responsible use of the NHS
over the Easter weekend.
 An
advertising campaign launched this week to encourage responsible use of the
NHS over the Easter weekend, has received the backing of local Labour MSP
Allan Wilson.
The Cunninghame North MSP wants to ensure that North Ayrshire residents most
in need of help can get it first. He is also encouraging locals to make sure
they are stocked with the essentials like cold and flu medicines, Calpol for
young children and enough medication to see them through the Easter weekend.
Speaking about the campaign, Allan Wilson MSP said:
"With many local GP practices closed over the four day Easter period, it is
expected that out-of-hours services will experience an increased level of
calls.
Ayrshire and Arran Health Board has put in place measures to deal with the
increased calls and visits expected, however North Ayrshire residents can
play an important part in helping to ensure that these pressures do not
cause significant disruption.
"Making sure that you have a prescription for any repeat medication you may
need over Easter, and only using the out-of-hours services if you can't wait
until your GP practice re-opens on 18 April are the two main things that
North Ayrshire residents can do to help.”
The practical
steps are:
a.. If you take repeat medication, make sure that your doctor gives you a
prescription to cover the holiday period (14 - 17 April inclusive).
b.. where possible, use your GP Practice for health care advice by making a
routine appointment.
c.. use out of hours services only when you think it can't wait until your
GP Practice re-opens on 18 April.
d.. ask your pharmacist for advice on treatments for common minor illnesses.
The NHS Scotland advertising campaign sets out some steps to help NHS
Scotland at this busy time, and highlights the NHS Helpline number:
0800 22 44 88
and website:
www.nhs24.com
which has further information on pharmacy opening times and self-help
advice. Posters have also been distributed to GP practices and pharmacies.
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