GP advice on how to hunt eggs not healthcare this Easter in Dorset

As Easter approaches, the NHS in Dorset are sharing top tips on how to stay healthy and happy over the Easter holidays. 

Top tips for looking after your health:

• You can use the NHS app to order your repeat prescriptions early

• Visit your local community pharmacy for advice and treatment for over 40 minor conditions

• Use your local urgent treatment centre rather than A&E for urgent care such as sprains and broken bones, minor head injuries and burns

• Visit www.staywelldorset.nhs.uk for local healthcare advice.

From ordering repeat prescriptions early and accessing mental health support, to making the most of local services like NHS 111 and community pharmacies, there are lots of things that people in Dorset can do to help themselves, as well as friends and family, stay well. 

Dr Simone Yule, GP in North Dorset and Deputy Chair of the Dorset General Practice Alliance said: “Over the Easter holidays, it helps to know where to go if you need advice or support.

“Remember your community pharmacist can help with lots of common illnesses. They can also supply prescription-only medicines for seven common conditions, including sinusitis, sore throat and earache.

“If you’re struggling with your mental health, you’re not alone and support is there. We have face-to-face safe spaces and a 24-hour helpline, and you can find information and advice on our Stay Well Dorset website. Please reach out if things feel too much, help is always available.”

For more self-care advice, visit www.staywelldorset.nhs.uk and read the Easter news item to watch Dr Simone Yule’s advice for common ailments such as coughs, colds, conjunctivitis and sinus infections. 

Repeat prescriptions

If you rely on repeat medication, make sure to place your orders now to avoid running out over the holidays. The easiest and quickest way to order your repeat medicine is via the NHS App, you can do this from the comfort of your own home.

Before you order, check what medicines you already have and only order what you need. Please do not stockpile medicines as excess supplies can be dangerous and wasteful. 

NHS 111

For non-emergencies, you can get medical advice 24/7 by calling NHS 111 or using the 111 online service. They have trained professionals who can direct you to the appropriate care.  

Community pharmacies

Your local pharmacy can offer clinical advice for common winter conditions such as coughs, colds, sore throats, tummy troubles, and aches and pains. Check their opening hours via www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-Pharmacy.  

Pharmacy First is a service that allows community pharmacists to provide prescription-only medicines to treat seven common health conditions, without a visit to a GP, including sinusitis, sore throat, shingles and uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women.  

Emergencies

In a crisis or life-threatening emergency, always call 999 or head to A&E. For serious injuries, chest pain, breathing difficulties, or signs of stroke, call 999 or head to A&E. For anything else, use 111 or speak to a pharmacist first.

Find urgent and emergency care services – NHS

Urgent Dental Care

If you need emergency or urgent dental care, after being assessed by NHS 111 they can direct you to your nearest dentist that can offer an urgent NHS appointment.

How to find an emergency or urgent NHS dentist appointment – NHS

Urgent Treatment Centres and Minor Injury Units

You can attend your local Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC) or Minor Injuries Unit (MIU) for urgent non-life-threatening conditions and injuries such as sprains, fractures and burns. For the latest information on opening hours and services, visit Urgent care – Stay Well Dorset.

Spring Vaccinations

The National Booking Services and 119 telephone booking service opens 7 April for people who are eligible for free vaccinations for COVID.

For the RSV vaccination, from 1 April anyone who is age 75 or over, or a resident of older adult care home will be eligible for a one-off vaccination. 

For more information on who is eligible and where to get your vaccinations visit: www.staywelldorset.nhs.uk/vaccinations