Countdown to Christmas – Don't forget your prescriptions

Tablets

As the four week countdown to Christmas begins, NHS Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale health experts are advising patients to not leave it too late to get their repeat prescriptions.

Those with long term health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, lung and heart disease, are reminded to ensure they have enough medication to see them through the festive season.

Elaine Radcliffe, Prescribing Advisor, NHS Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale, said: “We want to ensure those with long-term health conditions enjoy Christmas and don’t run out of their medicines.

“Many GP practices will have limited opening hours between Christmas and New Year which means patients may struggle if they’ve not planned ahead.”

Patients are being encouraged to make time for themselves in the busy Christmas run-up. Elaine Radcliffe added: “An early call to your GP to ensure you’ve a repeat prescription or a visit to your high street pharmacy could make all the difference for a happy Christmas. And don’t forget that pharmacies can provide useful advice and deal with minor ailments without you having to see your GP about winter bugs like coughs, colds, sore throats and the flu.”

NHS Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale joins NHS teams across the North West backing the nationwide Choose Well campaign. Choose Well reinforces the message that A&E and 999 services are for life-threatening and serious conditions. Your local high-street pharmacy can help you deal with minor illnesses and complaints such as coughs, colds, flu, stomach upsets, aches and sprains. To find your local NHS service go to www.hmr.nhs.uk and use the free service finder, or call NHS Direct on 0845 4647.