COLUMN: Make sure you are ready for festivities

With so much going on in the run up to the big day itself, sometimes less exciting tasks, like repeat prescription, can get forgotten, but this can make it more difficult for patients to get the medication they need nearer Christmas.

If you are going away, make sure you have enough medication to cover the entire time that you will be away from home.

Christmas is a time to enjoy special moments, so the last thing you want is to have that time spoilt by not being able to take your regular medication.

If you take repeat medication, you should request it in good time to ensure you have adequate supplies for the Christmas and new year period.

Your GP surgery will be closed on bank holidays and not all pharmacies will be fully open, so it’s important you pick up repeat prescriptions in advance.

Most practices need at least 48 hours to process a repeat prescription request.

Young people and the elderly are particularly susceptible to winter illnesses so make sure your medicine cabinets are well stocked with cold remedies, painkillers and plasters.

If you think you need to see a doctor but your surgery is closed, just phone your usual surgery number to be redirected to the out-of-hours service. You can also call NHS 111 for advice 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Wherever you celebrate the festivities this year, have a very happy Christmas and a healthy new year.

Andrew Morgan is the chief executive of Lincolnshire Community Health Services NHS Trust.