Stay well this Easter
With Easter just around the corner, the NHS in south west London is urging local people to plan ahead for the Easter holidays when GP surgeries are closed.
Alternative health services are available over the Easter holidays and local people are reminded that A&E is only for real emergencies. Easter is a busy time for A&E departments and there are other health services in south west London that can provide quicker and more appropriate treatment if you have a minor injury or ailment.
Using the right health service for your needs can prevent you waiting many hours in A&E, ensure you receive more appropriate treatment more quickly and free up local A&E staff to help those patients with the most serious conditions.
If your GP surgery is closed, calling the 24/7 free NHS number 111 or visiting the NHS Choices website (www.nhs.uk) can help you to find the right service.
It’s also important to make sure you have enough medicine to see you through the Easter holidays when GP surgeries are closed. Check your medicines and order your repeat prescriptions in good time.
Alternative NHS services available to south west London residents over Easter:
- Self-care – people suffering from minor ailments such as coughs and colds, grazes and hangovers should treat themselves at home or visit their local pharmacy.
- Pharmacies – your local pharmacist is qualified to offer advice on health issues and medication as well as treat headaches, an upset stomach and other common illnesses. You can find opening times for your local pharmacy here.
- NHS 111 – NHS 111 is a free phone service that is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It offers advice for patients with urgent, but not life-threatening, symptoms.
- Visit NHS Choices (nhs.uk) or My Health London (www.myhealthlondon.nhs.uk) for information about other local services.
- Remember A&E is for emergencies only.
