26 Jun 2024
NHS 24 is reminding the public to be prepared with their prescription medicines ahead of travelling this summer.
Forming part of their summer health campaign, the advice emphasises the importance of planning ahead to ensure that everyone has their necessary medicines available, whether travelling within the UK or abroad.
HS 24’s tips for travelling with prescribed medicines include:
Order in advance: Check you have enough medicine to cover the length of your trip. If you need more, order only what you need and allow enough time for GP practices and pharmacies to process the request.
Remember to pack them: Even if you are planning to stay away from home for just one night, remember to take your prescribed medicines with you.
Know the rules for overseas travel: If travelling abroad, check the destination country’s regulations regarding medicines. Some medicines that are legal and commonly used in Scotland might be restricted or even banned elsewhere.
Be aware of NHS 24’s Accessing Medicines Guide: Should you run out of your medicines in Scotland, the accessing medicines guide on NHS inform and the NHS 24 Online app provides valuable information on how to help source the medicines you need.
Dr John McAnaw, pictured right, Associate Clinical Director at NHS 24, said: “Summer is a time for relaxation and adventure, but it’s also a time when we must be mindful of our health.
“Every year our 111 service receives calls from people who are understandably stressed after forgetting to take their essential medicines with them when travelling away from home.
“Whether you are staying overnight with a friend, enjoying a weekend away, or exploring somewhere out the country, it is vital that you make your prescribed medicines a priority part of your travel preparations. Make your trip as worry-free as possible by taking the time now to pop your prescribed medicines on your holiday ‘to-do’ list.”
View more summer health tips from NHS 24 by visiting https://www.nhsinform.scot/summer.