Ahead of bank holidays on Monday 5 and 26 May, people in the North East and Yorkshire are reminded to plan for their medicines needs, use the NHS App to order repeat prescriptions and visit NHS111 online first if medical advice is needed.

Dr Faisel Baig, GP and Medical Director for Primary Care, NHS North East and Yorkshire, said:

“The NHS is here for you if you need us over the bank holiday weekends. We’re asking people in the North East and Yorkshire to ensure they’re prepared for any medicine needs and know how and where to get support and advice.

“Repeat prescriptions should be ordered in advance to ensure you have enough to last over each bank holiday. You can use the NHS App to order repeat prescriptions, and change your nominated pharmacy. The App also allows patients to see when their prescriptions have been issued and view their prescribed medication.”

Dr Baig added that NHS111 online enables people to access healthcare support on a wide range of health problems.

“NHS111 can tell you where to get help for your symptoms, the most appropriate local treatment option such as a GP, a pharmacy consultation, a call-back from a nurse, or an urgent walk-in treatment centre,” he said.

“People should still call 999 and go to A&E in an emergency – when someone is seriously ill or injured and their life is at risk.”

Health advice and information is also available at the NHS website, including help in finding a local pharmacy, dentist, GP practice or Talking Therapies service.

Download the NHS App for free on the app store or on Google Play.

People may also consider having at home a small stock of basic medicines in case needed for minor illness or injury. These may include paracetamol, plasters, indigestion remedy and anti-diarrhoeal medicine. Ask your local pharmacist for advice on what medicines you should keep at home.

With temperatures in the region forecast to reach 25 degrees this week, people are reminded to take sensible precautions during the fine spring weather.

Healthcare professionals advise that through dehydration or becoming uncomfortably hot, some people who are at higher risk may become unwell in warmer weather. Visit the NHS information page Sunscreen and sun safety for more information.