NHS Lanarkshire is asking patients to make sure their holiday health needs are taken care of ahead of GP surgeries closing on Fair Monday.
All surgeries across Lanarkshire will be closed on Monday 19 July for the public holiday. NHS Lanarkshire’s Out Of Hours Service will deal with calls from people who need urgent medical care and cannot wait until their GP surgery is open.
Linda McGregor, Out Of Hours Service Manager, NHS Lanarkshire, said: “At this time of year, people should ensure they have made any GP appointments they need before they go away on their holidays, especially as GP surgeries will be closed on Monday 19 July.
“The Out of Hours Service is always extremely busy on Fair Monday, so it is essential that patients are only calling up where they need an urgent appointment. Otherwise patients who really need the service will be kept waiting longer.
“Patients should plan ahead for routine appointments and requests for repeat or regular medication so they aren’t caught short ahead of their holidays.
“It is also useful to keep your medicine cabinet stocked with a few medicines, such as paracetamol, which can help you look after yourself at home. Your local community pharmacist will be pleased to offer advice about what you need.”
By using it appropriately you can ensure that those patients who need the service most can access it quickly and easily.
If you do need medical help over the holiday weekend and cannot wait until your GP practice is open you can access the Out of Hours Service by calling NHS 24 on 08454 24 24 24.
If you think you need an emergency ambulance you should still call 999.
For more information visit www.nhs24.com .