Some top tips from the NHS to help you stay healthy and happy over the Easter holiday’s.
From ordering repeat prescriptions early and accessing mental health support, to making the most of local services like NHS 111 and community pharmacies, there are lots of things that people in BSW can do to help themselves – and friends and family – stay well.
Dr Barry Coakley, Deputy Chief Medical Officer at Bath & North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board said: “During the Easter holidays, it’s important to know how you can get the help you need. With more people mixing over the Easter holidays, keeping up to date with vaccinations is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect yourself, your family and the wider community.
“The easiest and quickest way to order your repeat medicine is via the NHS App or GP Online Services – from the comfort of your own home. And do remember that community pharmacies can help you with many spring illnesses and provide prescription only medicine to treat seven common health conditions such as sinusitis, sore throats and earache.
“Mental health support is also crucial. Remember, help is just a phone call away by using NHS 111 option 2. It’s important to reach out if you’re struggling.”
Visit our Your Health website to help you access services to look after your health over the spring: Home – Your Health
If you rely on repeat medication, make sure to place your orders now to avoid running out over the holidays. The easiest and quickest way to order your repeat medicine is via the NHS App or GP Online Services – you can do this from the comfort of your own home. Before you order, check what medicines you already have and only order what you need. Please do not stockpile medicines as excess supplies can be dangerous and wasteful.
NHS 111
For non-emergencies, you can get medical advice 24/7 by calling NHS 111 or using the 111 online service. They have trained professionals who can direct you to the appropriate care.
Community pharmacies
Your local pharmacy can offer clinical advice for common spring conditions such as coughs, colds, sore throats, tummy troubles, and aches and pains. Check their opening hours via www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-Pharmacy.
Pharmacy First is a service that allows community pharmacists to provide prescription-only medicines to treat seven common health conditions, without a visit to a GP, including sinusitis, sore throat, shingles and uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women.
Emergencies
If you need emergency care, please call 999 or use your nearest accident and emergency department. Do contact 111 first if you are unsure if you need to use A&E services.
Looking after children
Parents and carers across Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire can now access an online health resource to help manage childhood illness.
The Healthier Together website offers trusted healthcare advice for families and is designed to support decision-making when children are unwell.
The site, available at healthiertogether.nhs.uk, has been reviewed by local paediatricians, GPs, and clinicians and aims to boost confidence in managing children’s health at home and knowing when to seek professional help.
You can also contact 111, your local community pharmacy or urgent treatment centre for non-emergency care.
Support with your mental health
People can struggle with their mental health more over the holidays, whether it’s family tensions, money worries, or the stress of holiday preparations.
For local mental health support visit Mental health services – Your Health
If you need urgent mental health use NHS 111 option 2.
Urgent Dental Care
If you need emergency or urgent dental care, after being assessed by NHS 111 they can direct you to your nearest dentist that can offer an urgent NHS appointment.
How to find an emergency or urgent NHS dentist appointment – NHS
Urgent Treatment Centres and Minor Injury Units
You can attend your local Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC) or Minor Injuries Unit (MIU) for urgent non-life-threatening conditions and injuries such as sprains, fractures and burns. For the latest information on opening hours and services, visit Health Services – Your Health
Spring Vaccinations
Free vaccinations for COVID and RSV for eligible age groups and conditions are available at GPs, community pharmacies, and at pop up clinics. For more information on who is eligible and where to get your vaccinations visit – Seasonal Covid-19 – Your Health
