People are being urged to do their bit to avoid unnecessary pressure on A&E services at Leicester Royal Infirmary over the bank holiday weekend.
GPs running Leicester City clinical commissioning group (CCG) are urging patients to make sure they have a supply of their prescribed medication and if they do feel unwell to check whether their GP surgery is open or to seek advice from NHS Direct.
They can also get help for minor injuries from an NHS walk-in centre or the urgent care centre at the infirmary.
Dr Avi Prasad, co-chairman of the CCG, said: "I urge people to consider all the options available to them should they need to seek medical advice.
"A&E becomes incredibly busy during public holidays.
"As A&E is only intended to treat those who are seriously ill, these patients will always be treated before those who may turn up with more minor injuries or illnesses, such as coughs, colds and minor cuts.
"We recommend people are prepared by keeping a well-stocked medicine cabinet and familiarise themselves with their nearest pharmacy."
To contact NHS Direct, call 0845 4647. For more, visit:
www.leicestercityccg.nhs.uk
