NHS advises patients to plan ahead for the May bank holiday weekends

With the first May bank holiday weekend fast approaching, the NHS in Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes is reminding patients to plan ahead and ensure they have the medication they need.

There are three bank holidays in May 2023: on Monday 1 May, Monday 8 May and Monday 29 May.

Some GP practices and pharmacies may have reduced opening hours or be closed over the bank holiday weekends, so patients are urged to check when their next prescription is due and to order it in good time.

Dr Sarah Whiteman, Medical Director, Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Integrated Care Board, said: “We want people to be able to enjoy the bank holiday weekends in May. Planning ahead to ensure you have the correct amount of medication and ordering repeat prescriptions in advance is an important step to avoid any delays or disruptions.

“Bank holidays are normally a busy time for our local health services, so we are encouraging people to choose health services wisely.

“People can play their part by using NHS 111 online or by phone for their urgent care needs however if the issue is urgent and/or life threatening then call 999 or visit your local A&E department.”

Patients should order their repeat prescriptions at least two working days before they run out of medication. This gives GP surgeries and pharmacies enough time to process the request and ensure that patients receive their medication on time.

The easiest way to order repeat prescriptions is by using GP online services, via the NHS App or through GP practices’ websites. Anyone who does not have access to GP online services can contact their GP practice to order prescriptions.

Find out what pharmacies are open by you over the May bank holidays on the NHS Find a Pharmacy site.