Ahead of the bank holiday on 1 May, the capital’s NHS is urging people to keep their health front of mind by ordering repeat prescriptions early and stocking up on medication for existing health conditions. Over the long weekend some GP surgeries and pharmacies may be closed, or working reduced hours, so it is important for Londoners to take this into consideration when planning for their healthcare needs.
Some local pharmacies may have different opening hours over the bank holiday. Pharmacies open over the long weekend can be found on the NHS
Find a Pharmacy site. Pharmacists are encouraging the Asian community to come forward for minor illnesses. NHS 111 online remains the best first port of call for people with urgent medical or dental care needs, where a trained adviser will provide the best care pathway.
On top of the 1 May bank holiday, the Royal College of Nursing have announced industrial action by nurses, which is set to take place from Sunday 30 April to Tuesday 2 May, which will inevitably have another huge impact on NHS services especially while taking place over the bank holiday weekend, a time when the NHS already faces increasing pressure.
It is therefore vital that people use emergency services appropriately to ensure care is available to patients who need it most.
No appointment is needed and local NHS pharmacy teams offer a fast and convenient service and if needed can speak to you in the privacy of a consultation room.
Ketan Agravat, Pharmacist at Pearl Chemist, Wandsworth said, “We encourage the community to come forward for pharmacist support for any health issues that are of concern especially over the bank holiday weekend where some GP services may be closed and emergency departments are expected to be busy due to industrial action. We are trained health care professionals and able to recommend the right treatment for a range of common conditions, such as tummy troubles, aches and pains, skin rashes, period pains and migraines.
“If you’re feeling unwell, don’t wait for your symptoms to get worse. For expert advice, talk to your local pharmacist.”
