NHS Sheffield Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) is doubling the number of GP appointments available over the bank holiday weekend to make it easier for people to get help if they are ill or injured.

Urgent GP and nurse appointments will be available on weekday evenings during 6pm-10pm and at weekends and bank holidays from 10am – 6pm at four ‘satellite units’ across the city.

Dr Zak McMurray, GP and Medical Director at NHS Sheffield CCG said: “Our big focus at the moment is how we can improve urgent care in the city, which is why we are investing more in this area.

“Bank holidays can be a busy time for our health services so by having more GP appointments available we hope to improve patient experience, making sure that people can get an appointment if they need one.

“We find that the majority of people who need care urgently could be seen by a GP rather than going to A&E, so we encourage people to keep A&E for those who really need it and to use a GP appointment instead.”

If you think you need to see a GP over the bank holiday weekend you can call your GP practice, or 111,  where you will be triaged by the out of hours service. If you do need to see a GP they will arrange that for you. Please note that appointments are not available on a walk-in basis.

The satellite units are delivered by Primary Care Sheffield, an organisation formed of GP practices across the city, working together with a range of partners.

Dr Andrew Hilton, Chief Executive of Primary Care Sheffield said, “You can prepare for the bank holiday by making sure your medicine cabinet is well-stocked in case any minor illnesses or ailments strike. Medicines such as paracetamol, ibuprofen, anti-diarrhoea medicine, re-hydration mixtures and indigestion remedies can all come in handy, as well as plasters and bandages for any minor injuries.

“Your local pharmacist can also be used as a first port of call for minor ailments. They are highly trained healthcare professionals, and can give advice on common illnesses and the medicines you need to treat them. Many pharmacies are open over the holiday and opening times can be found on the NHS Sheffield CCG website www.sheffieldccg.nhs.uk.”

For more information about the satellite units visit www.primarycaresheffield.org.uk.