Whilst most people might be busy preparing for Christmas, Humber, Coast and Vale Health and Care Partnership is calling on people to stay well this winter by promoting self-care and driving an uptake of pre-emptive health measures.
There are many simple ways to stay well this winter, such as:
- Visit their pharmacist or access NHS 111 at the first signs of illness
- Pick up prescriptions in advance of Christmas holidays
- Prepare for common minor illness/ self-care
- Check in on elderly neighbours and relatives
Over the winter months, Urgent Emergency Care services become extremely busy so it’s important that the public accesses the right NHS services, appropriate to their medical needs.
Thinking community pharmacy, GP and 111 First can help to avoid unnecessary trips to A&E and increasing the pressure on emergency care staff. This also benefits the patient as they are able to access the right service for them and access care safely and in a timely manner.
People with life-threatening illnesses or injuries should continue to dial 999.
Similarly, to avoid delays in prescriptions remember to order well in advance of the Christmas holidays.
It can take from seven to 10 days to request a repeat prescription and GP practices require two to three working days to issue a repeat prescription; it can take a further three days for pharmacies to process.
Patients are also being reminded to check what medication they already have and only order the items they need. Many GP practices and pharmacies will be closed over the festive bank holidays, so it is important that people are prepared for self-care at home.
It is recommended to have a medicine cabinet with some simple remedies like paracetamol and ibuprofen so you can treat common ailments such as colds, sore throat and coughs at home.
Cold weather can make some health problems worse and even lead to serious complications. It is important to keep your home warm and to check in on vulnerable neighbours and relatives this winter to ensure they stay well.
To find out more about preparing for winter and how to stay well, visit the NHS website.