As the festive season approaches, NHS 24 is urging people who rely on repeat medicines to plan ahead to ensure they have enough of their prescription to last through the holidays.
With many health services operating on reduced hours over Christmas and New Year, its essential people check their supplies now to avoid any delays or disruptions.
Dr John McAnaw, Head of Pharmacy and Associate Clinical Director at NHS 24, explains why prescription planning is crucial,
“Winter is a time when people can be more vulnerable to illness, and with the added pressures of the holiday season, it's important to be organised, just in case. Remember GP and local pharmacies are busy in the run up to Christmas and New Year, so it’s a good idea for you to check your medicines, make sure you have enough to last you and if you do need to order more, do that in plenty of time and don’t forget to collect it from the pharmacy.”
NHS 24’s tips for prescription planning include:
Check your medicines - Take a moment to review your prescription medicines and check that you have enough to see you through the festive season.
Order early - If you're running low, make sure to request a prescription from your GP or pharmacist at least a week before Christmas to allow time for processing.
Remember to pick it up! – There’s a lot going on at this time of year, so it wouldn’t be unusual to place the order, then forget all about it! Also be mindful that most pharmacies and GP practices will be closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day, with limited availability throughout the holiday period. Make sure you’re prepared for these closures.
Consider over-the-counter remedies - In addition to any prescribed medicines, ensure you have other health essentials readily available, such as painkillers, cold and flu remedies, and medicines for upset stomachs.
Dr McAnaw continues:
"Every year, NHS 24’s 111 service receives lots of calls from patients who have forgotten to order or collect their prescribed medicines and need urgent help getting what they need. Avoid the unnecessary stress by checking and arranging your prescribed medicines now, which will then allow you to enjoy a happy and healthy holiday season with your loved ones.”
For anyone needing help accessing medicines when their GP practice or local pharmacy is closed, go to Scotland’s Service Directory on NHS inform or the NHS 24 Online app to find the nearest open pharmacy to your location. There is also an accessing medicines guide on NHS inform which can provide people advice on what to do next if they run out of their medicine.
For more information on NHS 24’s winter campaign visit NHSinform.scot/winter
