By Eric White

PEOPLE in Harlow are being urged to make sure they order any repeat prescriptions they need ahead of the upcoming bank holidays on May 2nd (Monday) and on the 30th of the same month.

Appointments will be available in Harlow for the bank holiday, which will run from 8am until 8pm however patients are advised to contact their GP to book a slot if they need one, as it is not a walk-in service.

NHS West Essex Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) says it is vital residents are aware of the bank holidays approaching as most GP’s in the Essex area are set to close.

If you cannot manage to book an appointment in Harlow, self-care is recommended in cases where possible while you should visit your pharmacy for help and advice on addressing cases that don’t require a visit to the doctor such as a cough or cold.

The Weekend GP Service in Harlow will also run from 8am until 8pm on both Saturday and Sunday, although appointments must again be booked in advance with the GP.

Dr Rob Gerlis, Chair of West Essex CCG and Harlow GP said: “We want people to enjoy the bank holiday breaks and so a little bit of forward planning can go a long way.

“If you have a long-term health problem, and you take regular medication, remember to order your repeat prescription to avoid suffering a serious attack or hospitalisation if your medical supplies run out.

“Pharmacies are also the ideal place over the bank holiday weekends to get ‘over the counter’ remedies and advice for minor problems.”

Below are the opening times for pharmacies in Harlow – Bank Holiday Monday 2 May 2016:

Asda Pharmacy, Water Gardens – 11am – 5pm (closed 1pm – 2pm)

Boots, 37 Broadwalk – 10pm – 4pm

Harlow Pharmacy, Wych Elm House, Hamstel Road – 11pm – 5pm

Harlow Sainsbury Pharmacy, Fifth Allende Avenue – 9am – 7pm

Harlow Tesco Pharmacy, Tesco Superstore, Church Langley Way – 11 am – 4pm

The NHS add A&E should be used but only in life-threating cases and conditions. The NHS 111 number remains available for free all day, every day, for when you need medical help fast but it’s not for an emergency.

For more information please contact West Essex CCG Communications at www.westessexccg.nhs.uk or phone 01992 566140.