Health leaders in the east of England are encouraging everyone to think ahead of the bank holiday weekends during May by ordering repeat prescriptions early and stocking up on medication for any existing health conditions.

Bank holidays typically see a large increase in calls to the NHS 111 phone service from people needing urgent repeat prescriptions or medication – and Easter was no different.

Over the long weekends some GP surgeries and pharmacies may be closed, or working reduced hours, making it more difficult for people to access medicines at short notice.

Dr Edward Morris, regional medical director for the NHS in the east of England said:

“By planning ahead for any repeat prescriptions due, knowing when your GP practice is open and re-stocking medicine cabinets, you can enjoy the bank holidays with peace of mind.

“While many NHS services will still be open over the bank holiday weekends, we expect emergency departments to be busier than usual. That’s why it is so important to prepare early for your healthcare needs, to look yourself, your friends and family with any long-term health conditions and avoid any preventable trips to A&E.

“If you are in an emergency or life-threatening situation, call 999 but for anything else, NHS 111 online will give you fast advice and directions on what to do next.”

The easiest way to order repeat prescriptions is by using GP online services, via the NHS App or through GP practices’ websites. Anyone who does not have access to GP online services can contact their GP practice to order prescriptions.

It is recommended to request repeat prescriptions at least 72 hours in advance to allow enough time for them to be ordered and dispensed.

Information about pharmacies open over the May bank holidays can be found on the NHS Find a Pharmacy site.

NHS 111 online remains the best first port of call for people with urgent medical or dental care needs, where a trained adviser will provide advice on the best care pathway.