The NHS North West’s Chief Pharmacist is reminding people not to leave it too late to order repeat prescriptions if they are due ahead of the first of three May Bank Holidays.

Every bank holiday the NHS 111 phone service sees huge increases in people contacting it about repeat prescriptions – and Easter was no different.

Karen O’Brien MBE leads the pharmacy service across the region and has advised that any repeat prescriptions due in the days over the Bank Holiday will need to be ordered before Monday 24 April at the latest.

GP practices and pharmacies will have limited opening hours over the Bank Holiday, making it more challenging for patients to access medicines at short notice. Waiting and using emergency or urgent services over the break puts added pressure on already busy services.

Karen said: “By re-stocking medicine cabinets, knowing when your GP practice is open and planning ahead for repeat prescriptions, people can ensure they make the most of the Bank Holiday.

“Running out of your usual medication can have serious consequences, especially if you use them to control heart and breathing problems or a health condition such as diabetes, and is the last thing you want to do while your friends and family are together.”

The region’s lead GP Dr Paula Cowan, Medical Director for Primary Care, reiterated the message saying: “If you take regular medications, for whatever reason, and if you are due a repeat prescription over the bank Holiday, please remember to always request your repeat via your practice or the NHS app at least 72 hours in advance. It may take longer than 72 hours to order your prescription and have it dispensed so please first check with your GP practice and Pharmacy.

“This enables your practice and pharmacy to have your repeat ready in time for you. This is particularly important ahead of bank holiday weekends. Please help us to help you and avoid any gaps in your medication,”

Karen added: “The easiest way to order repeat prescriptions is by using GP online services, via the NHS App or through your GP practice website. If you do not have access to GP online services, you can contact your GP practice to order prescriptions.”

If people feel unwell over the bank holiday weekend, they can check their symptoms and get access to advice using 111.nhs.uk online. NHS 111 is a free service which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.