Now we are well in to December and it is the countdown to Christmas, local health experts are advising patients not to leave it too late to order and collect their repeat prescriptions. As many GP practices will have limited opening hours between Christmas and New Year Holidays, patients are advised not to leave it too late to order any repeat prescriptions they may need over the festive period. 

Dr Peter Mack, Clinical Chair of Swindon Clinical Commissioning Group said: “Christmas is the busiest time of year for many of us and at such a busy time of year, other tasks can seem dull and boring. Even so, one thing we should all do is spend a few minutes thinking about our health care by ordering and collecting any repeat prescriptions in good time over the holiday period, and being prepared with a well-stocked medicines cabinet to manage the symptoms of minor conditions such as colds, headaches and indigestion.”

With the bank holidays, practices will be closed for four days from 24 to 27 December, and again for three days from 31 December to 2 January. This means some people may need to order a few days earlier than they normally would – when they have around 10 days' worth of medication left. Please check your supplies at home before ordering your repeat medication and only order what you need so time isn't taken up with dispensing items that you won't use.

Dr Mack adds: “Running out of daily medication over the festive period could have serious consequences for patients who rely on them to control symptoms and manage disease. This is very important as emergency GP services at Christmas should not be used to get emergency supplies of medication. The winter period is one of the busiest times of year for the NHS so picking up a repeat prescription in advance could help keep staff free to deal with life-threatening emergencies.”

With cough, colds, tummy bugs and minor accidents common over Christmas, it is a good idea to ensure you have over-the-counter medicines and first aid items in stock.

Paul Clarke, Pharmaceutical Advisor for the CCG said: “Pharmacies are often open when GP surgeries are closed, including some with limited opening hours on the bank holidays. Pharmacists can offer advice and treatment for many minor health complaints, and avoid the need to visit a doctor for conditions suitable for self-care. Details of Christmas opening times for pharmacies across Swindon can be found here so you can plan to collect your prescription once your GP practice has ordered it, or visit the pharmacy for advice.”

For more information about looking after yourself this winter, visit www.nhs.uk which provides up-to-date and expert advice on a range of illnesses and complaints.

If you become unwell over the Christmas break and need medical advice, please call NHS 111, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.