RESIDENTS are being encouraged to choose their health services wisely during the next few weeks.

NHS Redditch and Bromsgrove Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) says there are lots of services available to help with a variety of illnesses and injuries including pharmacies, GP practices, and NHS 111.

The aim is to try to reduce inappropriate attendances to A&E departments over the busy winter period.

Dr Jonathan Wells, chair and clinical lead of NHS Redditch and Bromsgrove CCG, said: “People should make good use of their local pharmacy, many of which will be open over Christmas when other services may be closed.

"We’re urging the public to choose the right NHS service this winter, and pharmacies are the best place to get the right advice and treatment for coughs, colds and flu, along with many other illnesses.

“Another useful service to remember is NHS 111, which offers health advice and information 24 hours a day, 7 days a week."

He added: “We’re also reminding people to make sure they have all the medication they need for the Christmas period and have ordered their prescriptions in time to cover the holidays.

Information about Pharmacy opening times over the festive period are available on our website.”

For more information, visit isaandeforme.com.