HEALTH bosses in Worcestershire are reminding people in the county of the various alternatives to accident and emergency available of the bank holiday weekend.

With many GP surgeries closed throughout the entire three-day weekend, many may be tempted to go to A&E even if their condition is not critical.

But a number of more appropriate alternatives are available in order to keep the strain off A&E and ensure patients in more serious conditions are treated as quickly as possible, including the county’s five Minor Injury Units in Malvern, Evesham, Kidderminster, Bromsgrove and Tenbury.

All five units are able to treat conditions such as broken bones, minor burns, cuts and grazes and waiting times are generally significantly shorter than at A&E. The unit in Kidderminster is open 24 hours a day.

NHS 111 is also available for free non-emergency help and advice 24 hours a day while many pharmacies will be open throughout the weekend.

People who take regular prescriptions are also advised to make sure they have enough stock to last until after the bank holiday, while keeping a supply of medicines such as painkillers is always worthwhile.

Minor conditions such as coughs and colds are best treated by staying at home, resting and keeping hydrated.

For pharmacy opening times and other information visit www.isaandeforme.com.