Healthcare bosses are reminding people how to access NHS services during the upcoming May Bank Holidays.

Residents of Herefordshire and Worcestershire are being advised by health chiefs to plan ahead.

It has been recommended that repeat prescriptions are ordered as far in advance as possible, and they are urging people to use the correct services to ensure care is available for those who need it most.

 

 

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The public are encouraged to contact 111 online for non-immediate medical needs, with 999 reserved for life-threatening emergencies.

Alterations in operating times across some NHS facilities, including GP practices and pharmacies, might occur.

Dr Will Taylor, medical director for NHS Herefordshire and Worcestershire, said: "It’s important to plan ahead and make sure you’re fully prepared for the bank holiday weekends.

"There are a number of different things people can do to be ready, for example, collect your repeat prescription in good time, keep your medicine cabinet stocked and know which healthcare services are available to you."

Dr Taylor added: "People should only be using 999 and A&E for genuine life-threatening emergencies and using NHS 111 for other care needs- or if you’re unsure about whether you should go to hospital."

The NHS 111 service can be accessed either online or by phone 24/7.

It offers advice for urgent but non-life-threatening needs.

Trained advisers can swiftly recommend the suitable health service including out-of-hours GP appointments.

Moreover, pharmacists can aid with a range of common conditions and minor injuries.