New After Hours Pharmacy Service In Timaru

Anyone in Timaru requiring medication or other health
related information such as treatments for common complaints
such as colds and minor illnesses on weekends will continue
to be supported through a new after hours pharmacy service
available at Roberts Pharmacy from December 2nd.

It
follows the closure of Ashbury Pharmacy and Unichem Pharmacy
on Stafford Street. Ashbury Pharmacy previously provided the
after hours service.

Roberts Pharmacy, at 45 Heaton
Street Timaru will be open to provide the after hours
service on Saturdays, Sundays and public holiday’s from
9.15am to 1pm and 2pm to 5.45pm. There will be amended
opening hours for Christmas Day, these will be advertised
prior to Christmas.

Te Whatu Ora PHO Delivery Manager
for South Canterbury, Carol Murphy says it is important
people know they don’t have to wait until a weekday to
access important medicines or pharmacist advice.

“We
would rather people sought help when they first think they
might need it. We want everyone in South Canterbury to enjoy
the summer by being prepared and knowing how to stay healthy
and safe.”

“Now is a good time to be thinking
about what medications you might need while on holiday and
ensuring you have enough to cover the time you are away from
your usual healthcare provider,” she says.

While the
beach or the lake will be calling your name, the usual
advice applies – if you are sick, stay home and avoid
hosting or attending any events which could risk making
others unwell.

“This is particularly important if
you have symptoms of cold, flu or COVID-19. We encourage
everyone to check your supply of Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs)
to make sure they aren’t expired, and remember to pack
RATs if you’re travelling this summer to test your whānau
if you need to,” says Carol Murphy.

If you do get
sick, give your healthcare provider a call but understand
they may have reduced hours over the holiday period while
they too have a break. Healthline is available 24/7, 365
days of the year on 0800 611 116.

“Being prepared as
we head into Christmas will help ensure you have an
enjoyable summer with whānau and friends.”

Online
health information and self-help resources are available at
www.healthify.nz.

You
can also find a list of all the pharmacies in South
Canterbury on the Healthpoint website: https://www.healthpoint.co.nz/pharmacy/south-canterbury/

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