Easter health advice

Dr Sharma

NHS Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale Clinical Commissioning Group (HMR CCG) is reminding local people to keep well and stay healthy over the Easter break when there will be changes to opening times for healthcare services and pharmacies.

For protection against illness, Rochdale residents are advised to take practical steps which include checking opening hours, stocking up on over the counter remedies and getting repeat prescriptions before the Easter bank holiday weekend.

The full list of HMR pharmacies that will be open over the Easter bank holiday weekend can be viewed here. Patients are advised to telephone their usual pharmacy before travelling as opening hours may vary during the holiday period.

Some local GP appointments will be available at four ‘extended hours hubs’ across the borough over the bank holiday weekend. Patients can book in advance by contacting their own GP surgery or by ringing the Central Booking Service on 0161 763 8292. For more information, please follow this link.

Dr Sonal Sharma, local GP on the Governing Body of NHS Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale Clinical Commissioning Group (HMR CCG) said: “It’s important for local people to know where they can go for the right treatment if they are unwell this Easter and there are lots of options available to them.

“Many minor conditions can be easily treated if you have a well-stocked medicine cabinet at home. Pharmacists should be your first stop for common problems including mild eczema, coughs and colds, minor cuts and bruises, constipation and indigestion. They can give expert medical advice and help with lots of everyday ailments. If you do need to see a GP, our extended hours hubs are offering appointments over the bank holiday weekend.

“I’d also urge people to take care of any repeat prescriptions and be aware of when local pharmacies are open over the holiday period to make sure that avoidable illness doesn’t spoil the fun over Easter.

“By choosing the right service, patients will get the best treatment in the shortest possible time - whilst keeping emergency health services available for emergencies and life threatening conditions.”