The East of England’s top doctor is today reminding people that the NHS is still there for those who need it over Christmas and the New Year – but urges people to use services wisely at what’s typically one of the busiest times of the year.

NHS 111, pharmacies, GP practices and urgent dental services will all still provide care over Christmas – along with A&E and 999 being available for life‑threatening emergencies, as usual.

Professor Edward Morris, regional medical director for the NHS in the East of England, said:

“Should you need it this Christmas and New Year, the NHS is there for you – and by choosing services wisely, our teams can help you get the care you need, in the right place and at the right time, keeping emergency services free for those who need them most.

“Pharmacists are highly trained clinicians who can offer expert advice and treatment for a wide range of conditions, with many in the East of England open and providing services over the Christmas and New Year period.

“If you have a life-threatening emergency, you should call 999, but for anything else, please use NHS 111 as your first port of call so you can be directed to the best place for care and support.”

Pharmacies give patients access to quick, easy support – including prescription-only medicines – for a range of common conditions, including sore throats, sinusitis and earache.

Many pharmacies in the East of England will be open on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day, with full details published on NHS England – East of England’s pharmacy webpages.

GP services will continue to be available, with some offering extended hours. Patients should contact their GP practice in the usual way for non‑urgent medical needs – including by simply filling out an online form to beat the 8am phone rush.

People needing urgent dental care can access support via NHS 111 by visiting 111.nhs.uk or by calling 111, which will direct them to available urgent dental appointments.

Urgent and emergency care services will be open over the Christmas and New Year period as usual.

For urgent but non-emergency health advice, use 111.nhs.uk or call 111, with 999 and A&E available in the event of a life or limb threatening emergencies.

This winter the NHS is raising awareness of the range of ways to access care, including by sharing a striking short film titled ‘24 Hours Not In A&E’ to help people navigate their health concerns and avoid unnecessary visits to A&E departments and GPs.

The latest advice comes as five-day strikes by resident doctors came to an end on Monday 22 December.