Local healthcare leaders are warning that the remainder of the festive period will remain as demanding as the extended Christmas weekend, if not more so.
The public is once again called upon to demonstrate their support and contribute towards alleviating the significant pressure felt within the local NHS and the broader health and social care system.
All GP practices and pharmacies have reopened ensuring that individuals with persistent but non-urgent health concerns can contact their local surgery to schedule an appointment in the coming days. Those with existing appointments are urged to attend or promptly notify their practice if cancellation is necessary, allowing the slot to become available for others in need.
For individuals with less urgent conditions, including common winter ailments such as colds, flu, and norovirus, home treatment through rest and over-the-counter medicines is often sufficient. Assistance for minor illnesses and injuries can be sought through NHS111 or by visiting a community pharmacy, with many remaining open on both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.
Gill May, Chief Nurse at the Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon, and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board, expressed gratitude for the public’s ongoing support during this exceptionally busy time. She highlighted the importance of continuing sensible festive celebrations while choosing the appropriate healthcare options to ensure swift, safe, and effective care for those in need.
Despite previous support, challenges persist, and the healthcare teams are gearing up for the anticipated surge in demand over the next few days and into the first week of January. With another period of industrial action planned, the healthcare system is expected to face increased pressure.
May reassured the public that healthcare teams will be working tirelessly, even during the New Year celebrations, to provide care to those who need it the most. The public’s role in supporting loved ones in hospitals by providing lifts, collecting groceries, and necessary medicines is crucial to expedite their journey home, facilitating ongoing recovery, and freeing up vital bed space.
As part of the ongoing effort, 17 pharmacies across the region will be open on Monday, 1st January, with all other sites scheduled to resume regular opening hours on Tuesday, 2nd January. Information regarding open pharmacies during the festive period and accessing services this winter can be found online at BSW Together.
