With schools finishing for the summer, the NHS is encouraging families to make sure they know where to go for health help.
The school holidays can be a busy time but help is at hand from NHS 111, online and by phone, and with www.stopthinkchoose.co.uk
Stop Think Choose helps patients make an informed choice about the best service for them by listing the range of available options, including details on Kent and Medway pharmacies, urgent treatment centres (UTCs) and minor injury units (MIUs).
Dame Eileen Sills, Chief Nurse at NHS Kent and Medway, said: “It's important to come forward with any health concerns but you can help ease the pressure by choosing the right service.
“Whether your family has days out planned or you will just be enjoying the good weather in the back garden, it’s important to get the right help fast.
“Knowing the right place to go can help you get the treatment you need faster. Please choose wisely and help us help you.”
UTCs and MIUs can treat a variety of minor illness and injury. Patients can either walk in or call NHS 111 to get a same-day appointment booked.
Pharmacists provide expert, free, confidential advice on health issues such as cold sores, constipation, coughs, cystitis, diarrhoea, hay fever, headache, mild eczema, sunburn, sprains and strains. You can simply turn up and ask for advice with no prior appointment.