Milton Keynes residents reminded to sort medication ahead of Bank Holiday weekend

Running out of daily medication could have serious consequences, particularly for patients who rely on them to control heart and breathing problems.

People are also being urged to use choose the right medical services over the bank holidays.

A&E is for serious and life-threatening injuries and conditions only.

If medical advice is required or patients become unwell and their GP surgery is closed, they are advised to first call NHS 111, a fast and easy way to get the right help at any time.

NHS 111 is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Calls are free from landlines and mobile phones.

“It’s often easy for people to overlook the August bank holiday when it comes to ordering repeat prescriptions, but forgetting to get enough supplies can put additional strain on out-of-hours services, which are there to deal with urgent health problems not to issue repeat prescriptions,” said Dr Nicola Smith, Chair of NHS Milton Keynes CCG.

“This is why we are advising anyone who regularly orders a repeat prescription to order it at least a week before their medication is due to run out. Under normal circumstances it takes 48 hours to process a repeat prescription, though it can take longer during very busy periods such as bank holidays.

“People should be aware that their GP surgery or pharmacy will be closed at times over the holiday period. If in doubt it is best to check opening times well in advance.

“If you do become unwell or need medical advice when your GP surgery is closed, please be assured that GP out-of-hours services can be accessed by calling our free, 24-hour, 111 health line.”