Get prescriptions up-to-date for Bank Holiday weekend

PR71190514

19 May 2014

Get prescriptions up-to-date for Bank Holiday weekend

With another bank holiday weekend looming it is important to ensure you have adequate supplies of prescription medicines.

Over the Easter weekend NHS 111 received nearly 200 calls for emergency prescriptions from people who had run out of essential medications. This is putting unnecessary pressure on the service which is why people are being urged to get their prescriptions up-to-date this week.

NHS 111 provides a service for anyone who needs non-emergency medical help and should be called if:

  • it’s not a life-threatening emergency;
  • you don’t know who to call for medical help; or
  • you don’t think it can wait for an appointment with your GP; or
  • if you don’t have a GP.

Calls to NHS 111 are confidential and free from landlines and mobiles (pay-as-you-go mobiles must have 1p credit to access the service.) The service is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, in around 170 different languages.

Coughs, colds, upset tummies and headaches can also be treated using over-the-counter remedies, such as aspirin and rehydration powders. Your pharmacist can also help treat minor ailments such as allergies, minor cuts, bruises and skin conditions such as eczema. You can get details of GP and pharmacy opening times online at www.nhs.uk

A guide to the NHS services available in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly:

  • Pharmacies – Details of your nearest pharmacy can be found at www.nhs.uk
  • NHS 111 – for absolutely any health questions, around the clock, call 111.
  • Walk-in centre: For treatment of cuts, bruises, minor infections, stomach upsets, strains and skin complaints without an appointment – Cardrew Industrial Estate, Redruth, TR15 1SS. Open 8am to 8pm. Tel 01209 340997
  • Minor Injuries Units – treatment for injuries that need medical attention but are not life-threatening – visit www.kernowccg.nhs.uk for details of your nearest unit.

Remember, the emergency department is for critical or life-threatening situations only.

You can keep updated with NHS Kernow and have your say at and follow @nhskernow on Twitter and Facebook.

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