Think ahead and stay healthy this Easter

NHS Kent and Medway is encouraging patients to think ahead and stay healthy this Easter.

The bank holiday period is a busy time for the NHS and it’s important for people to use the right service if they are ill or injured. 

Patients can visit www.StopThinkChoose.co.uk to find information on local services in Kent and Medway, including pharmacy opening times over the Easter weekend.

Plan ahead 

If you have planned a trip away, pick up any prescription medications you need in advance and take these with you. 

You can order repeat prescriptions on the NHS App and nominate a pharmacy, saving you time and putting you in control of your health needs.

Make sure you have a well-stocked medicine cabinet at home, which should include a thermometer, oral rehydration sachets, plasters, pain killers and antihistamines. 

Think Pharmacy First 

If you or your children are not well, get advice from your pharmacist at the first sign of feeling ill – don’t wait for it to get more serious.

Highly trained pharmacists can help with a number of common health conditions such as sore throats, colds and bites. 

The majority of pharmacists in Kent and Medway are also part of the Think Pharmacy First scheme, where they can issue a prescription, if necessary, for seven specific conditions, including urinary tract infections for women aged 16 to 64.  

Accessing urgent care 

You can visit an urgent treatment centre if you or your child has a suspected broken bone or fracture, a sprain or a strain, minor cut, burn or scald.

Patients can visit a centre without an appointment if they have an urgent condition that needs to be seen on the same day. Use our map to find your nearest one.

Appointments can also be booked by contacting NHS 111 by phone or online. By using NHS 111, patients will know they are going to the right place for treatment.

Dr Kate Langford, Chief Medical Officer at NHS Kent and Medway, said: “The Easter bank holidays places huge pressures on services and staff and patients often have to wait longer than expected. 

“It’s important that people use the right service for them. If anyone’s not sure, they can contact NHS 111 online or by phone, or visit www.StopThinkChoose.co.uk.”