NHS Anglia Commissioning Support Unit

Members of the public in need of medical advice over Easter are being encouraged to use the health helpline 111 or visit their local pharmacy.

The free NHS111 helpline is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and many pharmacies will be open over Easter.

Dr Jon Bryson, Chair at South Norfolk Clinical Commissioning Group,Ā said: “Many pharmacies will be open across Easter, including Easter Sunday, and people needing advice could visit these if they are able to self care. The 111 service is also available and is free to call from a landline or a mobile phone.”Ā 

There are lots of services available to help with a variety of illnesses and injuries including pharmacies, GP practices, out-of-hours services, NHS111 and walk-in centres.

Dr Anoop Dhesi, Chair at North Norfolk Clinical Commissioning Group,Ā added: “These services do not replace the 999 number which you should ring in anĀ emergency.”

Dr Ian Mack, Chair at WestĀ Norfolk Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “There are a number of ways a patient may need treatment, including caring for yourself at home or visiting a pharmacy for advice.Ā 

“Patients should access the right service, at the right place, at the right time.”Ā 

1. Cold & flu:Ā Self care at home.Ā Take pain-relieving paracetamol, stay well hydrated and rest.

2. An itchy rash on your skin:Ā Pharmacy.Ā Pharmacists will be able to assess a rash and provide you with medication to help alleviate your symptoms. For a list of pharmacies open during Easter please see theĀ documentĀ accompanying this release, or visitĀ www.nhs.uk

3. Stomach ache:Ā GP or pharmacist.Ā Your pharmacist will be able to provide indigestion remedies, but if your stomach ache persists, your GP will be able to advise you of the best course of investigation and treatment.

4. A cut to your finger:Ā Walk-in centre.Ā Visit your walk-in centre or minor injuries unit where they will be able to advise and treat you if necessary. Timber Hill Health Centre in Castle Mall, Norwich is open from 7am-9pm, seven days a week, 365 days a year, including public holidays. Cromer Minor Injuries Unit is open seven days a week from 8am-8pm, including public holidays, 365 days a year.

5. Sprains & strains:Ā Walk-in centre, self care at home or GP.Ā For a fall orĀ sprain you can visit a walk-in centre for assessment, rest at home, or make an appointment to see your GP.

Pharmacy opening times Easter 2014.pdf

Timber-Hill-Health-Centre-in-Castle-Mall-Norwich