As Kent and Medway prepares to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, the NHS is encouraging people to think ahead and stay healthy over the special weekend.
The long weekend is expected to be a busy time for the NHS, but with a few simple steps people can plan ahead and avoid an unnecessary trip to A&E.
- Check if you need repeat prescriptions for any regular medication
- Stock up on self-care essentials like painkillers, plasters, and indigestion remedies
- Celebrate sensibly – don’t overdo the food or alcohol
- Check what urgent care services will be open near you.
Dr Navin Kumta, Chair of NHS Kent and Medway Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), said: “The jubilee weekend is going to be a great celebration. NHS teams will be working throughout the long weekend if needed, but please do celebrate sensibly and plan ahead.
“Checking you have what you need is important and so is knowing the right place to go if you need help.
“GP practices will be closed on the bank holiday Thursday and Friday so we’re urging people who take regular medication to check they have enough to last.
“Please make sure your medicine cabinet is well stocked too – no one wants to spend the jubilee driving around in search of the basics you thought were at the back of the cupboard.
“If you’re organising street parties or heading off to beaches or other attractions be prepared for minor accidents, visit www.stopthinkchoose.co.uk to check what urgent care services will be open near you.”
The Stop Think Choose website gives advice on which NHS service to use, along with details of urgent treatment centres (UTCS), minor injury units (MIUs) and pharmacies across Kent and Medway. UTCs and MIUs can treat a variety of minor illness and injury. Patients can either walk in or call NHS 111 to get a same-day appointment booked.
NHS 111 will be available 24-hours a day throughout the jubilee weekend; online at 111.nhs.uk or by calling 111. If you go online, a GP or nurse can call you back to give advice, if required.