NHS services open over the Easter weekend
Health leaders in North Somerset are urging local people to know their healthcare options ahead of the Easter bank holiday.
Many GP surgeries and some pharmacies will be closed on Good Friday (19 April) and Easter Monday (22 April).
Around 85 people in the area attended A&E at Weston General Hospital during the four day Easter period last year and either left before being seen or did not require significant treatment.
Dr Lesley Ward, local GP and Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire CCGs’ clinical lead for unplanned care, said:
“Easter is traditionally a very busy time of year for emergency services, when closures at GP practices and some pharmacies can leave some people unsure about where to go for help. However, many services remain open during this period to provide you with the medical support you need, without the need to spend long periods of time waiting for treatment at A&E.
“Some pharmacies will be open and can dispense medicine on prescription, help you manage long-term conditions such as diabetes and asthma and give you advice on medication and staying healthy.
“If you are unsure which healthcare service best meets your needs, you can dial 111 at any time for professional healthcare advice. As well as being treated more quickly, this will ensure A&E departments can focus on treating people with serious and life-threatening conditions.”
Phil Walmsley Director of Operations and deputy Chief Executive, Weston Area Health NHS Trust said:
“Here at Weston General Hospital we have a great team who operate our Emergency Department, 0800 to 2200. Last year we had 85 people visit us who did not require significant treatment. This year we urge people to consider if the Emergency department is the right place for your healthcare and to reduce the waiting times here at Weston”
The CCG website pharmacy page has pharmacies opening hours for each area during the bank holiday dates: https://bnssgccg.nhs.uk/health-services/pharmacies/
ENDS