Falling ill over the festive period is never pleasant. But what if you require medical attention during the festive break?
Many GP surgeries are closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day as these are considered bank holidays. However, there are generally still ways to contact a local out-of-hours GP service if necessary.
For those in need of urgent medical advice, the NHS 111 service is available 24/7, every day of the year, reports the Express. Its professionals will assess your condition and, if necessary, connect you with a nurse, doctor or paramedic.
You may then be referred to an urgent treatment centre, an out-of-hours GP service, your regular GP during normal hours, or even the closest A&E department. However, the service asserts that it cannot do the following:
- Issue fit notes – you need to contact your GP
- Make or cancel appointments for you in other parts of the NHS
Meanwhile, some walk-in centres may also maintain their usual operating hours on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. Walk-in centres cater to a range of illnesses including ear, nose, throat symptoms, minor cuts and bruises, sprains and strains, abdominal pain, insect and animal bites, rashes and urinary tract infections.
Despite this, it’s always recommended to call ahead and check the opening hours before making your way there. When GPs are closed, it’s likely they will be busy, potentially resulting in long waiting times.
If you’re facing a life-threatening situation or dealing with something severe, it’s crucial to dial 999. In a fresh statement, NHS England North West’s Medical Director for System Improvement and Professional Standards Dr Gareth Wallis stressed: “The NHS is here for you if you need us over the festive season.
“NHS 111 is an excellent option for healthcare support and advice on non-emergency health problems. It can direct you to the most appropriate local treatment, whether that’s your GP, a pharmacy, a call back from a nurse, or an urgent walk-in treatment centre. However, in an emergency, such as when someone is seriously ill or injured, people should still call 999 or visit A&E.”