Top tips for the bank holiday from NHS Greater Manchester

That time of year is approaching – the days are getting longer, we’re starting to defrost from winter and there are a string of bank holidays to look forward to. Spring can however be a pressured time for health services.
Not sure where to go

With the bank holidays only weeks away, NHS Greater Manchester is planting the seed to make sure that everyone knows where to go for the care they need, and there are a few important tips to remember: 

  1. Do you take regular medicines on a repeat prescription? If so it’s a good idea to check how much you have at home before the long weekend. If you need to order more, put your request in at least two weeks before you expect to run out of a particular medicine, to avoid any complications or delays.
  2. Did you know your pharmacist can give you expert advice on treating minor illnesses or injuries? So, if you find yourself with a sore throat or your little one is teething, your community pharmacy can see you without an appointment and recommend over-the-counter medicines they can also prescribe medicines for some conditions too. Just remember to check their bank holiday opening times.
  3. Not sure which NHS service you need? When you use the right NHS service, you get the right treatment sooner. If you’re not sure what to do or where to go, go to 111.nhs.uk. It’s available 24/7, 365 days a year.
  4. Need urgent care? Whether you have a pain in your gums, have a sudden change in your vision or need support for a mental health crisis, there are local services there to help. Find the right urgent and emergency services for your needs