Local GPs, community pharmacies and urgent dental services will be open to those who need them this Bank Holiday (Friday 8 May).
GP practice services, such as appointments and prescriptions, will be available either at your own practice or another close by, and many pharmacies will open for at least three hours – some for longer.
You can call NHS 111 at any time if your condition is urgent but not life threatening, and urgent dental services will also continue to operate.
It is important that patients continue to stay home unless their journey is essential, and this includes to receive necessary medical care.
Most GPs are now offering consultations online or by phone. However, if a patient does need a face-to-face appointment GP practices have changed the way they operate and staff in the surgeries are taking additional precautions to maintain a safe environment.
Kent GP and Chair of NHS Kent and Medway Clinical Commissioning Group Dr Navin Kumta said: “The NHS remains open for business this Bank Holiday and anyone who needs help or advice will be able to access the care they need.
“Anyone visiting a GP practice or pharmacy at any time should follow the social distancing guidelines to help keep everyone safe.”
Coronavirus symptoms?
If you or someone you live with has symptoms of coronavirus, in particular a high temperature and/or a new persistent cough, please do not visit your GP practice or a community pharmacy.
Instead, stay at home and if symptoms worsen, or you feel you cannot manage at home, please refer to the NHS111 online coronavirus service.
If you need advice from a GP or pharmacy for anything other than coronavirus, contact your GP practice online or by phone.
If your practice is closed, you will be directed to a service in your area which is open.
Many pharmacies will open on Friday for a minimum of three hours, others for longer – you can find out opening hours on the NHS website or the pharmacy’s own website.
Dr Kumta said: “Pharmacists and their teams are an essential part of the NHS and need your help and support during the coronavirus pandemic.
“Please always treat our staff with respect, they are doing their best to provide you with the medicines and advice you need.”
Prescriptions
Repeat prescriptions should be ordered in the usual quantities at the usual time – this is to ensure that there are enough medicines for everyone who needs them.