HEALTH bosses have advised residents from Stamford, Bourne and the Deepings about how they can access services in an emergency over the festive period.
People in Lincolnshire can call NHS 111 to have their symptoms assessed and to be directed to the most appropriate health service.
The Johnson Community Hospital in Spalding will remain open for patients every day throughout the holiday while dental practices within the county that offer urgent dental treatment will be closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
People with an urgent dental need can contact NHS Direct on 0845 603 1404 to be triaged and given appropriate advice.
Dr Martin McShane, director of commissioning development and QIPP for NHS Lincolnshire, said: “We want people to be aware of the health services available to them over the Christmas period to ensure they get the right care first time.
“The NHS 111 number is free to call from mobiles and landlines any time of the day. The telephone service will assess your symptoms and direct you to the most appropriate service, whether it be GP out-of-hours, a late night pharmacy or health care advice.
“Most minor conditions and cold and flu like symptoms can be treated at home, so be prepared and make sure your medicine cupboard is well stocked with essentials like cold and flu remedies and pain relief.”