Getting Prepared for Winter – Part 7: Medical Matters

Winter is a time when ill-health is more prevalent and when there is increased pressure on the NHS. At Bluebird Care Calderdale, we believe that, with a little forward-planning, you can make sure you are prepared and know where to turn for help.

CHOOSING WHICH NHS SERVICE TO USE
The NHS is busy in winter, but it’s important that people continue to use their services when they need them. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the best service for your medical condition. Each links through to the NHS’s “Together we Can” website, which has more information on making the best choices.

• Self Care At Home: Many minor issues like coughs, grazes and sore throats can be treated at home. More Info
• Pharmacy: Great for medical advice and treatment for things like colds, tummy troubles, rashes, aches and pains. More Info
• NHS111: Visit the NHS 111 website or call 111 if you need medical help quickly, 24/7. More Info
• Mental Health: Call 0800 183 0558 (Calderdale) or 0800 952 1181 (Bradford ) for free, confidential, help, support, information and guidance. More Info
• GP: GP practices provide advice and support on a range of health concerns. Seven days a week. More Info
• A&E: For life threatening emergencies like heart attacks. 24/7. More Info·       

PRESCRIPTIONS: For people who have repeat prescriptions, electronic repeat dispensing (known as eRD) gives them the reassurance of knowing their next prescription will be ready for collection at their pharmacy when they need it, and flexibility so they have medication at busy times like bank holidays. Guidance on how to order a repeat prescription is available on the NHS website, or you can use the NHS App to order repeat prescriptions, or change your nominated pharmacy, in just a few taps. You can also use the NHS website to find a pharmacy near you which will be open over the bank holidays.

MEDICINE CABINET: Make sure you have a well-stocked medicine cabinet that is kep locked or out of reach of children. Here are some essential items that you should consider storing in your medicine cabinet:

• Pain relief medications: Aspirin, Paracetamol and Ibuprofen
• Cough and cold medicines: Cough medicine, Decongestant
• Antihistamines: Antihistamine tablets
• Antibacterial ointment: Hydrocortisone cream, Antibiotic ointment
• First aid tools: Bandages, Sterile Gauze, Medical/Adhesive Tape, Antiseptic for cleaning a wound, Cotton Balls/Swabs, Small Pair of Scissors, Tweezers, Ice and Heat Packs
• Prescription Medicines: You can also store your prescription medicines but make sure you have the prescription inside your medicine cabinet as well for further information about these medicines.

Please note that every family will be different, but if you are in doubt, your local pharmacy is a great source of advice. You can also read NHS advice on what to keep in a first aid kit at home.