THE NHS care board which covers Berkshire has said it is gearing up to tackle winter challenges and is encouraging residents to take steps to help alleviate pressures.
The Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, and Berkshire West Integrated Care Board is seeing teams from across the region working to prepare for some of the NHS’ busiest months of the year as winter approaches.
They are also encouraging residents to take up free flu, Covid, and RSV vaccinations if eligible and prepare their repeat prescriptions ahead of weekends and bank holidays where applicable.
They are also advising to use NHS 111 to seek advice when finding out which services they need for their health concerns, and to contact GPs about worrying symptoms, or pharmacists for minor illnesses.
They are again reminded only to use 999 and emergency departments in life-threatening conditions.
Residents are encouraged to stock up on necessary over-the-counter medicines and to look out for family members, friends, and neighbours– particularly those who are vulnerable.
Rachael Corser, Chief Nursing Officer at the NHS BOB Integrated Care Board, said: “Winter is always a busy time for the NHS and comes at the end of a year which has already seen all our teams under significant pressure.
“Thanks to the hard work which goes on every day across BOB, we are aiming to put the NHS and social care on the front foot in supporting patients and local communities to get the care they need.”
Dr Ed Capo Bianco, GP and Urgent Care Clinical Lead for BOB ICB, said: “It’s also important to keep yourself well this winter.
“Having a personal winter plan might include stocking up on the cold and flu medicines in your medicine cabinet at home, as well as thinking about other supplies that can help you manage if we have a cold snap.
“Make sure that if you do have a long-term condition like diabetes, asthma, or high blood pressure you take your prescribed medication and attend any review appointments that are due.
“If you do fall ill, you can get helpful advice from your local pharmacy or get in touch with 111 online or by phone.
“Don’t forget to download the NHS App, it has lots of advice on hundreds of conditions and can help you access health services.”
Full advice and further details are available via: 111.nhs.uk
