NHS leaders across Hertfordshire and west Essex are urging local people to order their repeat prescriptions, so they have all the medication they need to last them over the Christmas and New Year period for a worry-free festive season. 

It can take up to five working days for some pharmacies to process prescriptions, and with GP practices closed on the Christmas bank holidays and fewer pharmacies open, you may not be able to get a prescription at short notice. 

Ordering your repeat prescription couldn’t be easier – using the NHS App or your GP practice website. If you don’t use the internet, contact your GP practice directly.

Order your medication when you are running low (7 to 10 days before you need them), and no earlier. Add reminders in your calendars to help you check to see if you need to order more.

Anurita Rohilla, Chief Pharmacist at NHS Hertfordshire and West Essex Integrated Care Board, said: “Every year, hundreds of local people run out of the medication they need over bank holidays. Not only does this cause unnecessary stress, but running out of essential medications could affect your health. Last minute requests also put added pressure on NHS services when they’re typically busier than normal

“Give yourself peace of mind by planning ahead with ordering and collecting repeat prescriptions for yourself or those you care for.”  

“It’s helpful to check your local pharmacy’s opening times over the festive season to ensure you are able to pick up any medicines. While you are there you can stock up on medicine cabinet essentials such as pain killers, indigestion remedies, cough and cold remedies and a first aid kit so you can treat minor illnesses or injuries at home.”

You can find live information about pharmacies open near you using ‘Find a Pharmacy’ on the NHS website: www.nhs.uk/find-a-pharmacy. 

As well as providing expert advice and treatment for minor illnesses and injuries, through the Pharmacy First scheme, they can also supply prescription medicines for seven common illnesses without the need for to see your GP first. These are sore throat, earache, sinusitis, impetigo, infected insect bites, shingles and uncomplicated urinary tract infections. Age limitations apply and you can find more details on our website 

You can download the NHS app on Google Play or on the Apple Store.

If you find that you have run out of prescription medication over the bank holiday weekend and need an emergency repeat prescription, you can request an emergency prescription via NHS 111.

Find out more at www.hertsandwestessex.ics.nhs.uk/meds