SOMERSET'S GPs and health professionals are asking people to help themselves and the NHS over the Bank Holiday (Monday, August 27) by getting the right treatment for their level of ill health.

Minehead GP Dr Ed Ford, chairman of Somerset Clinical Commissioning Group, said: "You can save yourself a lot of time and effort when you get the right treatment for your level of illness or injury.

"If you only have a minor illness or ailments then visit your local pharmacist. They can help with expert advice and over-the-counter remedies.

"If you need urgent medical advice but it is not a life-threatening emergency then telephone NHS 111. Their call handlers can tell you where to find everything from your nearest minor injury unit, to an emergency dentist or an out-of-hours doctor."

Treatment options if you become ill over the break include:

SELF CARE. Have a few basic items in your medicine cabinet such as paracetamol, a bandage, sticking plasters and antiseptic cream or indigestion tablets.

PHARMACISTS. If you feel unwell and need advice, visit your pharmacy.

NHS 111. Call 111 when you need medical advice or information quickly. It’s not a 999 life threatening emergency service. Calls are free from mobiles and landlines. Also call 111 if you become ill after your GP surgery has closed and you need urgent advice or medical help.

EVENING AND WEEKEND URGENT GP APPOINTMENTS. GP practices in Somerset offer appointments into the early evening (between 6.30pm and 8.00pm) and weekends. For evening appointments book by phoning your GP practice from Monday to Friday between 8am and 6.30pm.

GP OUT-OF-HOURS. If you become ill after your GP surgery has closed, ring 111 for the out-of-hours service. Remember to re-order routine prescription medicines you need a week before the Bank Holiday.

MINOR INJURY UNITS. There are seven minor injury units at community hospitals in Bridgwater, Burnham-on-Sea, Chard, Frome, Glastonbury, Minehead and Shepton Mallet. If your injury is not serious you can get help from them rather than a busy hospital A&E department.

HOSPITAL ACCIDENT AND EMERGENCY. A&E or the 999 ambulance service will be treating patients with life threatening and emergency conditions. For people experiencing chest pain, serious loss of blood or who become unconscious, telephone 999 for an ambulance immediately.