GPs across Leeds are reminding patients to order their repeat prescriptions before the Christmas holidays.
The last day to order prescriptions in time for Christmas is Thursday 19 December 2019 as GP practices usually need 48 hours’ notice to process them.
GP appointments will available over Christmas. Pre-booked appointments can be booked either directly with your GP or by ringing NHS111. GP appointments may not be at your usual GP practice but at your local extended access hub so people are advised to plan ahead.
Appointments may also be at a local extended access hub on Wednesday 1 January 2020, so people should make sure they have enough medicines to last into the New Year.
Dr Sarah Forbes, GP at Oakwood Lane Medical Centre and Associate Medical Director at NHS Leeds Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), said: “As Christmas is such a busy time, ordering repeat prescriptions can often be forgotten at this time of the year. This means that you run the risk of illness as you may not have enough medication to get through the festive season.”
“Those that do need repeat medicines over the holiday period should call NHS 111 or use their online service. The service is free to call, is open 24 hours-a-day, seven days-a-week and can arrange a small emergency supply to collect directly from a local pharmacy.”
“Using NHS 111 helps relieve a lot of strain on emergency services, which are there to deal with life threatening illnesses and injuries, and not issue repeat prescriptions.”
Local GPs are also reminding patients of the benefits of using their local pharmacies. Pharmacists are experts in medicines and can give people advice without the need for an appointment. There are some pharmacies open across Leeds over Christmas and New Year. A list of those pharmacies and their opening times is available via the NHS Leeds CCG website.
If people need urgent help, but it’s not a 999 emergency, call NHS 111 or go online to 111.nhs.uk for advice and direction to the most appropriate service. NHS 111 is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and calls are free.