HEALTH bosses in Barnsley are urging residents to ensure they know where to get the correct care over the bank holiday weekend.

People who need medical help that isn’t an emergency are being advised to contact NHS 111 in the first instance by visiting 111.nhs.uk or by calling 111.

Patients can also get treatment for seven common conditions directly from their local pharmacy without the need for a GP appointment or prescription as part of the Pharmacy First scheme.

This includes for sinusitis, sore throat, earache, Infected insect bite, impetigo, shingles and uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women.

During bank holiday periods GPs see an increase in the number of people requesting regular repeat medication urgently because they have run out.

If you do take regular prescribed medication, locals are being asked to make sure they have enough to cover you for the extended period when GP practices may be closed.

Dr David Crichton, medical director at NHS South Yorkshire, said: “We hope everyone enjoys the bank holiday weekend but if you do need medical advice or treatment it’s useful for people to know which services are available and most appropriate.

“During bank holidays, accident and emergency departments can get extremely busy and we continue to see some people attending who don’t know where else to go when usual services are closed.

“Choosing the right service not only means you receive the treatment you need, but also helps reduce pressure on urgent care teams, allowing them to focus on those who need them most.

“Visiting your local pharmacy or calling 111 can potentially save you time and prevent an unnecessary journey, as well as making the difference for A and E departments and 999 to treat those with more serious conditions or injuries.”