GPs and pharmacies staying open on Easter bank holiday dates

NHS bosses have cancelled the four-day weekend for doctors and pharmacy staff to cope with the Covid-19 outbreak in Northamptonshire.

GPs bosses at NHS England have told local GPs they will be working as normal on both Good Friday and Easter Monday.

And most local pharmacies must open for a minimum of three hours, between 2pm and 5pm, on both the bank holidays — although some, such as at major town stores such as Boots and Tesco, will open for longer.

A Northants Strategic Response Centre spokesman said: "There is a substantial increase in the volume of prescriptions pharmacies are currently dispensing due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

"To help support the pressure and demand on community pharmacies during this time NHS England & Improvement has decided that, as GP surgeries will be opening over the Easter bank holidays, community pharmacies will also be open to the public.

"Please remember patients do not need to order their medicines earlier than usual and please remember not to order extra medication compared to normal to support community pharmacies in meeting the current demand."

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