Local health experts are asking people to make looking after their health a priority as the Easter bank holiday looms (14 through 17 April).
Clinicians from NHS Doncaster Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals are encouraging residents to collect any repeat prescriptions for essential medicines before the break, ensuring a safe and healthy long weekend.
From Good Friday to Easter Monday, most GP surgeries and pharmacies will be running reduced opening times, but some will remain open during this period. If you do become ill or injured during this time, a wide range of health services will still be available, such as the Minor Injuries Unit at Montagu Hospital.
The Mexborough based service can treat a wide range of issues such as minor burns, cuts and grazes. Staff can also examine and treat superficial injuries to the eyes and ears and also arrange X-rays for suspected broken bones. Open 9am to 9pm every day of the year (except Christmas), the Minor Injuries Unit can often offer faster treatment than the Emergency Department and specialises in treating household knocks and scrapes.
Dr David Crichton, NHS Doncaster CCG Chair, said: “Picking up repeat prescription in advance, over-the-counter medicines and knowing which services are available, such as the Doncaster Same Day Health Centre and others, can be the difference between a relaxing weekend and a stay in a waiting room. Plan ahead of time and enjoy your break.”
Moira Hardy, Acting Director of Nursing, Midwifery and Quality at Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals, said: “Bank holidays can often be a busy time for services such as the Emergency Department. Planning ahead of time and knowing what help is available, should you become ill or injured, will help you get the right treatment at the right time, allowing you to enjoy the long weekend.”
A lot illnesses and symptoms can be treated in your home by making use of a well-stocked medicine cabinet and by getting plenty of rest. Keep essential medicines such as: paracetamol, anti-diarrhoeal medicine, cough medicine, plasters, thermometer and antiseptic cream.