Barking and Dagenham, Havering and Redbridge GPs: Self care to save time

People in Barking and Dagenham, Havering and Redbridge are being urged to take simple steps to stay fit and healthy this winter – with a reminder that caring for yourself can also help the NHS. 

Looking after your own health at home or visiting your local pharmacy for help and advice could save you time – and an unnecessary visit to your GP practice.

Winter is the busiest time for local hospitals and GP surgeries, but many common illnesses can be most easily treated with over-the-counter products and rest.

Ahead of Self Care Week (18-24 November), Dr Jagan John, local GP and Clinical Lead for Urgent Care for NHS Barking and Dagenham, Havering and Redbridge Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), said:

“As local GPs, we want to support you to look after your own health. Taking simple steps, such as keeping fit and healthy, can help you fight off common winter bugs.

“It’s always useful to keep your medicines cabinet well stocked – that ensures you have a first aid kit available to deal with any minor illnesses or injuries.

“You should also consider having the flu jab every year. If you’re not eligible for a free NHS vaccination, you can arrange one for a small charge at many local pharmacies.”

To stay health over the winter, people are advised to:

• Get vaccinated against the flu. People at greatest from the illness are eligible for the free NHS vaccination. For more information, visit the NHS website
• Seek advice from a pharmacist if you start to feel unwell. Don't risk waiting until it gets more serious – even if it's a cough, sore throat or a cold
• Try to stay active – even when you’re indoors – and stay warm in colder weather
• East a healthy diet with a good helping of fruit and vegetables
• Make sure your home medicine cabinet is well stocked with basic items such as painkillers (paracetamol and ibuprofen), cold and flu remedies and anti-diarrhoeal medicine. For more information, visit nhs.uk/livewell/pharmacy

Dr John added: “Following these simple steps and using the right service could save you valuable time and an unnecessary trip to your GP over the busy winter period.

“Self care can also help to reduce the pressure on local health services – freeing up A&E and much-needed GP appointments for those who really need them.”

The majority of people feel comfortable managing everyday minor ailments such as coughs and colds. However, there are still 57 million GP consultations a year for minor ailments which take up, on average, an hour a day for every GP.

If you do need health advice in Barking and Dagenham, Havering and Redbridge this winter, you can seek it from:

• Your local pharmacy – You can speak to a pharmacist without having to make an appointment. Your pharmacist can advise you how to look after yourself at home with rest and over-the-counter treatments. Many also offer the flu vaccination. To find your local pharmacy and the services it offers, visit nhs.uk.

• NHS 111 service – If you need medical help quickly, but your condition is not life threatening, you can call NHS 111. Available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, the free service is staffed by trained advisors and experienced clinicians who can assess you, offer advice and direct you to the right place to get the medical care you need.

The best way to tackle ill health is to avoid it in the first place. Making small changes to your lifestyle can help you stay well this winter and make a big difference to your future health.

For more information and advice, visit the NHS website.