As well as our practice, there are many other local NHS services you can contact for health advice, information or treatment. Self-help is available through NHS 111 Wales website. Click NHS 111 Wales for symptom checker and further advice. Don’t forget that most Pharmacies now offer a minor ailment service where they are able to provide some prescription medication without seeing a GP and without charge.
Before you do contact the surgery, remember that you can treat many minor ailments such as colds, coughs and indigestion by keeping a well-stocked medicine cabinet at home.
We suggest you keep the following:
- Paracetamol and aspirin (children under 16 and people with asthma should not take aspirin)
- Mild laxatives
- Anti-diarrhoeal medicines
- Rehydration mixture
- Indigestion remedy (for example, antacids)
- Travel sickness tablets
- Sunscreen – SPF15 or higher
- Sunburn treatment (for example, calamine)
- Tweezers and sharp scissors
- A thermometer
- A selection of plasters, non-absorbent cotton wool, elastic bandages and dressings
Remember:
- Keep the medicine chest in a secure, locked place out of reach of small children
- Always read the instructions and use the suggested dose
- Watch expiry dates – don’t keep or use medicines past their sell-by date
- Take all unwanted and out-of-date medicines back to the pharmacy
Pharmacy Information
Did you know you can get free treatment and advice from your local Pharmacy through the Common Ailments Service. The Common Ailments Service offers patients access to free NHS advice and treatment for common conditions. The service is available from all community Pharmacies in Aneurin Bevan University Health Board and offers an alternative to making an appointment with the GP. To find your nearest pharmacy and services it can provide, visit