Ahead of the August bank holiday weekend, people in the Black Country are being reminded how to access NHS health services if they need help.
The NHS often sees increased demand over bank holidays, and with consultants planning strike action 7am on Thursday 24 August until 7am on Saturday 26 August, health services in the Black Country are likely to be under significant pressure over the long weekend.
All health and care partners in the Black Country are working together to prepare for the industrial action and bank holiday weekend and are asking the public for their support.
Due to the bank holiday (Monday 28 August), some GP surgeries and pharmacies may be closed or working reduced hours. Selected pharmacies will still be available for prescriptions, non-urgent medical advice, and treatment of common ailments. A full list of participating pharmacies, including opening hours, can be found on the NHS website here.
People who need medical help that isn’t an emergency should contact NHS 111 in the first instance by visiting 111.nhs.uk or by calling 111. NHS 111 can help direct people to the most appropriate local health service if they aren’t sure where to go – this could include an out of hours GP, a pharmacy, an urgent treatment centre, or a hospital accident & emergency (A&E) department.
Sarb Basi, Director of Primary Care for the NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board, said: “The NHS is expecting an extremely busy weekend over the upcoming bank holiday weekend, with services under significant pressure. That’s why it’s important that people choose services wisely during this time and take simple steps to ensure care is available for patients who need it.
“If you or a loved one needs medical help over the bank holiday weekend then please remember that NHS 111 online is available to help you. It will direct you to the most appropriate health service for your needs. If for any reason you are unable to use 111 online, then please phone 111 from your mobile or landline.
“A number of pharmacies will also remain open over the bank holiday and should be your first port of call for any minor illnesses. Pharmacists are trained medical professionals who can help with a range of ailments, from abdominal pain and sore throats to coughs and colds and urine infections.
“It is also useful to think about stocking your medicine cabinet up with any essentials in case you need to treat any unexpected minor health concerns at home over the long weekend. You can ask your local pharmacist for advice on any medicines you might need.
“Choosing the right service not only means you receive the treatment you require, but also helps reduce pressure on urgent care teams, allowing them to focus on those who need them most.”
A&E departments and 999 are there to treat the most serious and life-threatening conditions.
