The NHS has published the opening hours for pharmacies in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire over the festive period.
Details about which pharmacies will be open on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day are on the NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamshire website.
Some areas in the north of the county only have one or two pharmacies open on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day, so people are being encouraged to stock up in advance on some basic medication just in case.
Dr Dave Briggs, Medical Director at NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, said: “Some pharmacies will be open over Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day but I would urge people to stock up on basic medication in advance – just in case they need it.
“If you are ill over the festive period, pharmacists can give advice and treatment on a range of minor illnesses and many can offer services like a repeat supply of oral contraception, or the emergency hormonal contraception, without the need to visit a GP. Most pharmacists can also offer treatment and some prescription medicines for seven common conditions under the Pharmacy First scheme.
“No-one wants to be ill over the Christmas and New Year period, but we hope local people will be reassured that the NHS is there for them this winter. If you are unsure which service is best for your needs, visit 111.nhs.uk or phone 111.”
Under the Pharmacy First scheme, pharmacists can help with these seven common conditions:
- earache (aged 1 to 17 years)
- impetigo (aged 1 year and over)
- infected insect bites (aged 1 year and over)
- shingles (aged 18 years and over)
- sinusitis (aged 12 years and over)
- sore throat (aged 5 years and over)
- urinary tract infections or UTIs (women aged 16 to 64 years)
You can also start using oral contraception or get a repeat supply of oral contraception from most pharmacies without the need to visit a GP. This includes the emergency hormonal contraception – also known as the morning after pill.
