WITH a three day Bank Holiday weekend approaching, health bosses are reminding people in Worcestershire to be aware of their options if they or a family member becomes ill or injured.

As many GP surgeries, pharmacies and other healthcare services will not be open as normal on Monday, May 4 due to the May Day bank holiday, many may be tempted to go to A&E with minor complaints.

But Worcestershire’s three Clinical Commissioning Groups are reminding people there are a number of other options, including the county’s three Minor Injury Units in Malvern, Evesham, Kidderminster, Bromsgrove and Tenbury, which can deal with conditions such as broken bones, burns, grazes, cuts and sprains.

Waiting times at all five sites are generally much shorter than at A&E and the unit in Kidderminster is open 24 hours a day.

The NHS 111 service is also available for free 24 hours a day while pharmacists can also offer advice and medicines for a range of minor ailments.

Over-the-counter medications are often the best option for minor complaints such as headaches and upset stomachs. People with regular medication are reminded to make sure they have enough to see them through until after the Bank Holiday.

For a list of pharmacy opening times on Bank Holiday Monday and more information visit www.isaandeforme.com.