As we approach the Christmas holiday season it’s important to remember that not all pharmacies will be open over the whole festive period.

The NHS is reminding people in the East of England where and how they can access expert medical treatment over the Christmas and New Year holiday (Wednesday 25 and Thursday 26 December 2019 and Wednesday 1 January 2020).

Patients are encouraged to visit their nearest pharmacist should they require quick, confidential advice on a range of common illnesses. They are also being reminded to contact their pharmacy or check GP online services to make sure repeat prescriptions due over the bank holidays will be available to them.

Dr Sean O’Kelly, Regional Medical Director for NHS England and NHS Improvement in the East of England, said: “Your local pharmacy can help you with more than you might think.  Pharmacists can offer expert, confidential advice and treatment for many minor health problems.

“As most GP surgeries will be closed on bank holidays, we would encourage patients to order any medication they need in advance of Christmas. Patients who use GP online services can use that facility to request repeat prescriptions or make a GP appointment. Provided you have internet access, signing up for GP online services is easy to do. Contact your local surgery for details.”

Information about pharmacies that are open in the East of England over the Christmas and new year can be found at: https://www.england.nhs.uk/east-of-england/nhs-england-and-nhs-improvement-east-of-englands-work/pharmacy-information/

Residents can also find information on their nearest walk-in centres, urgent care centres or minor injuries units by simply typing in their postcode on www.nhs.uk

If you need urgent care, use the NHS111 service by visiting 111.nhs.uk online or by dialling 111 on your phone. NHS 111 is a free service which runs 24 hours a day, seven days a week.