The NHS is urging people to ensure they have enough medication to last them over the festive period
Ambulance bosses have issued a warning to people to stock up on essential medication ahead of the Christmas period.
North West Ambulance Service issued the alert as December gets in to full swing, as over the bank holiday period they see a surge in 111 calls from distressed callers requiring emergency medication. By requesting people to stock up this festive season, the NHS hopes to reduce this influx of phone traffic while avoiding preventable medical emergencies that could have severe consequences.
This would clear the lines for urgent medical calls after 18,000 were made regarding prescriptions over the winter period last year, according to the North West Ambulance Service. This made repeat prescription requests the third most frequent call to the NHS from December 2023 to February 2024.
Paul Johnston, the ICC service delivery manager for 111 urged people to only order the correct amount of medication to avoid unnecessary amounts going to waste. Steve Riley, NHS England North West Deputy Regional Chief Pharmacist, reiterated this message asking people to make sure to check supplies this winter and order ahead on what you may be running low on.
To order a top-up, go to the NHS website or use the mobile app with your NHS account or head over to your local surgery and make your request.
