The local NHS is reminding Rotherham people when health services will be open over the Easter bank holiday period.
Health services across Rotherham experience significant pressure over the Easter period, however help is at hand for those who need it. Several Rotherham pharmacies will be open when other health services and shops are closed if you need to buy over-the-counter medicines because you’re unwell.
Remember, your local pharmacist is a mine of useful health care information if you’re feeling under the weather. They are highly qualified to give advice on a wide range of common health problems and the best medicines to treat them. They prescribe from a range of medications so you don’t even have to go to your doctor for some things.
Local GP practices will be closed on Good Friday and Easter Monday and weekends. For those who need to see a GP or nurse at weekends and on bank holidays the Walk-in-Centre, based at the Rotherham Community Health Centre, will be open 8am to 9pm.
Are you someone who needs regular medication? With GP practices closed for up to four days (Sat – Tues) in a row over the Easter bank holiday you will need to check that you have what you need to see you through the holiday period. If not, order a repeat prescription from your GP practice as early as possible.
24 hour helpline, NHS 111, is open throughout Easter to provide advice when you are feeling ill. Advisors will also arrange out-of-hours appointments with a GP when practices and Walk-in-Centre are closed.
Dr David Clitherow, local GP and GP lead for Urgent Care at NHS Rotherham CCG, said: “Most ailments and illnesses, such as coughs, colds, sore throats, aches and pains can be self-treated at home with a well-stocked medicines cabinet. NHS 111 and pharmacists are highly qualified to give advice on a wide range of common health problems and the beat way to treat them. However if your symptoms are severe and won’t go away then there are doctors available to provide advice.
“Choosing the right treatment will help patients get better quicker and help clinicians to help those in most need of medical attention.”
Rotherham practices continue to run a Saturday GP Service Pilot for routine pre-booked appointments covering all of their local population, between 8am to 11am on Saturdays. It gives those who may be unable to attend during the week access to a GP appointment. Patients are encouraged to speak to a receptionist at their own practice who can book an appointment and will advise where to attend. The appointments are pre-booked at your own practice. Only booked patients will be allowed into the premises – no on the day or urgent appointments are available.
