Find out how to get the right medical care, if you become unwell, over the bank holiday weekend and get back to enjoying the long weekend as quickly as possible.
There are changes to some opening times, with GP practices and many pharmacies remaining closed on Monday 5 May. There are still plenty of options available throughout the bank holiday weekend and people are advised to seek help straight away if they need it.
Minor and common illnesses
People who are generally in good health, can treat many minor illnesses themselves at home, but anyone needing advice can use NHS 111 Online or the NHS App.
Most people have a community pharmacy near where they live and they are the right place to go for advice about minor illnesses and for over-the-counter medicines.
Under the Pharmacy First scheme, many pharmacies also now offer treatment and prescription medicine for some conditions, without needing to see a GP.
For a list of those pharmacies that will be open over the bank holiday and their opening times visit: https://leicesterleicestershireandrutland.icb.nhs.uk/your-health/get-in-the-know/right-now/bank-holiday-pharmacy-opening-times/.
When it’s urgent
For all urgent health needs over the bank holiday weekend, people are advised to use NHS111 online or they can phone 111 or use the NHS App. If necessary, they can arrange an appointment or arrival time-slot to see a nurse or doctor at a local urgent care service.
Some urgent care services can be used without an appointment, but it’s best for people to use NHS 111 instead to make sure it is the right place for them to go and to keep their waiting time down.
The 999 service and the Emergency Department should only be used for an urgent, life threatening, medical situation, where emergency assistance is required.
Mental health advice
In a mental health crisis, people can call NHS 111 and choose option 2, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can also text 0748 063 5199 and someone will get back to you within 12 hours.
For more information, visit: www.getintheknow.co.uk