NHS in Surrey urge patients to 'think pharmacy first' this Easter Weekend
A&E departments are expected to be busy, so the NHS are reminding people that they can get help for minor illnesses within the community
People in Surrey are also being encouraged to ‘Think Pharmacy First’ for minor health concerns this Easter Weekend.
Accident and emergency departments are expected to be busy, so the NHS are reminding people that they can get help for minor illnesses such as such as an ear infection, impetigo, insect bites, shingles, sinusitis, sore throats or urine infections, within the community
We're told mental health support is still available all weekend through the crisis helpline.
For urgent support you can call the 24/7 Mental Health Crisis Helpline on 0800 915 4644. Safe Havens are also available across the county for out-of-hours care.
Professor Andrew Rhodes, Joint Chief Medical Officer at Surrey Heartlands NHS said:
"We want everyone to enjoy the long bank holiday weekend and Easter holidays, whilst remaining safe and healthy.
Should you become unwell, please make sure you are using the right service so that those who need emergency care over the bank holiday can be seen as quickly as possible.
For non-emergencies, the NHS 111 service can be contacted either by phone or online where they will triage patients to the most appropriate service.
Whilst pharmacies are open during the long weekend, GP surgeries are not, so do plan ahead with any repeat medication you may need to prevent you becoming unwell."