NHS warns North West patients to order and collect repeat prescriptions before Christmas deadline
The NHS is urging people across the North West to order and collect their repeat prescriptions ahead of the busy Christmas and New Year period.
Health leaders say anyone whose medication is due to run out over the festive bank holidays must request a repeat prescription by Monday, December 15 to ensure there is enough time for it to be processed and collected.
Karen O’Brien, Chief Pharmacist for NHS England in the North West, warned that failing to prepare could leave people without essential medication at a time when services are already stretched.
“Making sure your repeat prescriptions are planned in advance for Christmas and New Year can ensure you make the most of the festive period and keep up your medication routine, avoiding unnecessary calls to 111 or, even more seriously, trips to A&E, but please do only order what you need,” she said.
She stressed the potential dangers of running out of medicines used to manage heart conditions, respiratory problems or diabetes, adding that a well-stocked medicine cabinet and checking pharmacy and GP opening times can help people manage minor ailments safely at home.
The warning comes as pressures on the NHS continue to mount.
Flu cases are rising across the region and resident doctors are due to strike from December 17 to 22, adding further strain on services.
Last Christmas, NHS 111 saw a major spike in calls from people who had run out of prescription medication.
The service received 3,595 requests for emergency medication over the 2024 Christmas and New Year bank holidays - up from 2,317 the previous year.
Pharmacies across the North West will operate reduced hours over the festive period, with many closing on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.
Limited opening hours mean people may struggle to access medicines at short notice, pushing more patients toward already busy urgent and emergency services.
Dr Paula Cowan, Regional Medical Director for Primary Care, echoed the call for early preparation.
“If you take regular medications, for any health condition, and if you’re due a repeat prescription in the week leading up to Christmas or the New Year, please remember to request repeat prescriptions via your practice or the NHS app by Monday, December 15,” she said.
“This enables your practice and pharmacy to have prescriptions ready in time which is particularly important ahead of Christmas and New Year.
“Please help us to help you and avoid any gaps in your medication and help ease pressure on the already busy NHS as we head towards one of our busiest times of year.”
The NHS is also encouraging people to use digital services to manage their healthcare more easily.
Repeat prescriptions can be ordered through GP online services, GP practice websites, pharmacies and the NHS App, which also allows users to book appointments, view their health records and access trusted medical advice.
Despite the seasonal pressures, urgent and emergency services will remain open throughout Christmas and New Year.
People should call 999 or go to A&E in life-threatening emergencies, while 111.nhs.uk should be the first port of call for non-urgent advice.