Help us help you this bank holiday

23 August 2022

With the August bank holiday weekend on the horizon, the NHS is encouraging residents in Kent and Medway to think ahead and know where to go for medical help.

These simple steps can save time and avoid an unnecessary trip to A&E:

  • make sure your medicine cabinet is well-stocked
  • check if you need any repeat prescriptions for regular medication
  • keep yourself safe in the sun by drinking plenty of fluids, applying sun cream and wearing protective clothing.

Pharmacy opening times

Some pharmacies will remain open on Monday, 29 August to help those looking for help to treat minor illnesses, such as diarrhoea, a runny nose, a cough, or a headache. You can turn up and ask for advice, no appointment is needed.

All pharmacies provide NHS prescription dispensing, emergency supplies of medicine (subject to the decision of the pharmacist), non-prescription medication and advice on treating minor health concerns.

Get the right treatment 

If you need help for an urgent, but not life-threatening medical need, contact NHS 111 first by phone or online at 111.nhs.uk. The service gives professional advice about your condition and directs you to the best place for treatment.

Urgent treatment centres (UTCs) and minor injury units (MIUs) are equipped to deal with many of the most common ailments people go to A&E for, treating minor injuries and illnesses, such as sprains, minor burns and broken bones.

Patients can just 'walk-in' to any UTC or MIU in the county without an appointment and wait to be seen. 

Read our guide to local services and how to access them at www.stopthinkchoose.co.uk

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