Pharmacies Open and Ready to Help During August Bank Holiday

Strategic Insights -

Pharmacies across the region, including the Isle of Wight, are reminding the public that they are open and ready to help with minor health concerns. With the August bank holiday weekend approaching, NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight is encouraging people to consider using the Pharmacy First scheme for minor illnesses, allowing them to access treatment and advice without needing to see a GP. Community pharmacies can often be the fastest and most convenient way to get help for minor illnesses and injuries, and pharmacists can prescribe medications, provide health and wellbeing advice, and monitor blood pressure.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Pharmacy First scheme allows people to access treatment and advice for common conditions such as sinusitis, earache, sore throat, and uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) without needing to see a GP.
  • Community pharmacies can often be the fastest and most convenient way to get help for minor illnesses and injuries.
  • Pharmacists can prescribe medications, provide health and wellbeing advice, and monitor blood pressure.
  • A full list of pharmacies open during the bank holiday has been published by NHS England.
  • Residents are advised to check with their chosen pharmacy before visiting, as opening times may be subject to change.
  • Urgent Treatment Centres (UTCs) will also be open across the region for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries.
  • For mental health support, residents can call 111 to speak with a trained advisor, or text 'HANTS' to 85258 for free, confidential support via Shout.
  • In a medical emergency, always call 999 or go directly to the nearest emergency department.

Statistics:

  • 4 pharmacies are open on the Isle of Wight on Monday, August 25.
  • 3 of these pharmacies will be open from 10am to 4pm.
  • 1 pharmacy will be open from 8.30am to 6pm.
  • The Pharmacy First scheme allows access to treatment and advice for 4 common conditions.
  • 111.nhs.uk is available to help direct people to the most appropriate service.
  • The Healthier Together app is a great source of trusted advice and information on common childhood illnesses and symptoms.

Sources:

  • NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight: "Pharmacy First scheme"
  • NHS England: "Pharmacies open during the bank holiday"
  • The Chemists 122-126 High Street, Newport: "Opening times"
  • Boots Website: "Pharmacy opening times"
  • 111.nhs.uk: "Get help with minor illnesses and injuries"
  • Healthier Together app: "Trusted advice and information"