South west London’s top nurse and doctor are reminding people that the NHS remains open for them this bank holiday weekend – and not to wait if they need urgent care.
Chief nursing officer Elaine Clancy said that by knowing when pharmacies and GP practices are open and planning ahead for repeat prescriptions, people can ensure they have everything they need ahead of the long weekend.
She said: “As you prepare for the break, please ensure your health is still front of mind. It’s important to plan ahead for any known health conditions and ensure that you, your family or anyone you provide care for have enough medication to last the long weekend.
“We expect emergency departments will continue to be busy, so we’d ask people to look after themselves, family and friends and avoid any preventable trips to A&E but if you need medical help or advice, or you are unsure about whether you should go to hospital for a medical problem, go to 111.nhs.uk, unless it is a life-threatening emergency when you should call 999.”
Meanwhile, Dr John Byrne, chief medical officer, said that while NHS remains very busy people will still get urgent care when they need it. People can get help by contacting 111.nhs.uk for urgent medical needs.
Dr Byrne said: “If you’re out and about in London enjoying the long weekend, we hope you have a great time but if you do feel unwell, remember that the NHS is here for you.
“Local pharmacists are available to offer advice and treatment, 111.nhs.uk is also there 24/7 with bookable phone appointment with clinicians, minor injuries units are also open for walk in slots and appointments – and don’t forget the NHS app can help with repeat prescriptions as well as a host of other things.
“But if you need urgent medical care to continue to come forward as normal, especially in emergency and life-threatening cases.”
Over the bank holiday weekend, if you need urgent health care:
- If it is a life-threatening emergency, then call 999. If you are told to go to hospital, then you must go. The NHS will help you get the care you need.
- If you need urgent mental health care ring the 24/7 crisis line at South West London St George’s 0800 028 8000 for Kingston, Richmond, Merton, Sutton, or Wandsworth and for Croydon, call South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust on 0800 731 2864 (Option 1).
- People can order medication using the NHS app or through their GP practice, which may also have an online service.
- Some local pharmacies may have different opening hours during a bank holiday. Search ‘find a pharmacy NHS’ to locate an open pharmacy near you.
- If you need urgent dental treatment this bank holiday, contact your regular dentist. If you cannot contact your dentist use NHS 111.nhs.uk for information about your local out of hours service.
- GP services are available this bank holiday weekend – contact your practice online or by phone to be assessed. If your practice is not open but an appointment is necessary, you will be advised of the next steps. Your appointment may be at another nearby service.
- For all other urgent health needs over the bank holiday, contact 111.nhs.uk or by phoning 111.