NHS Lanarkshire has launched a comprehensive plan for the busy winter period – and is urging the public to be ready too.

The health board’s robust plan will ensure patients continue to receive high-quality care throughout the winter months.

Now healthcare staff are encouraging locals to have their own preparations in place and to play their part in easing the pressure on health services at the busiest time of year for the NHS.

The winter plan involves all parts of NHS Lanarkshire, including pharmacies, GP surgeries, the primary care out-of-hours service and general hospitals. It has been developed with the support of staff and partners, including the health and social care partnerships and councils in North and South Lanarkshire, the Scottish Ambulance Service and the NHS 24 advice line.

One key feature was additional opening hours for many of Lanarkshire’s GP practices on the Mondays and Tuesdays following Christmas and New Year.

With the support of the Scottish Ambulance Service and the roads departments of North and South Lanarkshire councils, contingency plans have been drawn up in case of bad weather so patients who must attend hospital are able to get the treatment they need.

NHS Lanarkshire chief executive Calum Campbell said: “We can all take a few easy steps to be ready for winter.

“Stock up on over-the-counter remedies for common winter illnesses like coughs and colds and get the flu vaccination if you’re in the right age group or have particular health needs.

“Norovirus, colds, flu and winter weather all make this the health service’s busiest time of year.

“But I’m confident we have a tried and tested approach to winter planning in Lanarkshire, which we’re improving every year with measures to ensure we can provide a rapid and effective response during the periods of greatest pressure.”

For more information on the Lanarkshire winter plan and health advice this winter CLICK HERE.