As we get into the Christmas spirit, health leaders at NHS Sefton and West Lancashire Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCG) are reassuring residents that the NHS is still there for you over the festive period.
Dr Peter Gregory, local GP and chair of NHS West Lancashire CCG, said: “Even though GP and pharmacy opening times may vary over Christmas and the new year, NHS services and support is still available for people that need it.
“A lot of common illnesses and minor injuries can be treated at home with over-the-counter medicines. If you’re not feeling well the NHS.uk website has a complete guide to conditions, symptoms and treatments, including what to do and when to get help.
Some pharmacies in the area will be open and are a great source of expert healthcare advice and over-the-counter medicines. It’s also a good idea to stock up your medicine cabinet with things like indigestion medicine and painkillers, such as ibuprofen and paracetamol in case you need them.
Help us Help You
Across the region there are a range of health services to support people if they feel unwell or have any health concerns. There are services which you may be unfamiliar with but could be more appropriate and convenient for you depending on your specific issue.
Pharmacy Services
Several pharmacies will be open throughout the Christmas bank holiday period and the best way to find out which pharmacy is open and when, is to visit the CCG’s website and check out their Twitter and Facebook pages for on the day updates.
Your local pharmacy can offer free, confidential and expert advice on a range of health issues. They can also help you to self-care and prepare for many common winter illnesses and offer advice on which medicines to keep in stock at home.
To find your local health services and to check pharmacy opening times in West Lancashire on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, Boxing Day in Lieu (28 December 2020) and New Year’s Day, visit: www.westlancashireccg.nhs.uk/your-health-services/
OTS News on Social Media