HEALTH bosses across Worcestershire are encouraging to know their health service options with the cold weather forecast over the next few days. 

Patients in Wyre Forest can contact their own GP during surgery hours, visit their local pharmacist, dial 111 for medical advice and information and there are five Minor Injury Units across the county, including one at Kidderminster Hospital

At this time of year, cold weather and cold homes can have a significant impact on people's health, so keeping warm over the winter months can help prevent some illnesses particularly among the elderly and those with respiratory conditions.

Some of the best ways to keep warm include having hot meals and drinks regularly, staying active and moving around and wearing lots of thin layers to trap heat. 

Mari Gay, interim chief officer for the Worcestershire Clinical Commissioning Groups, said: "There is a wide range of health services available to people across Worcestershire and it is important that people know what these are and how they can be accessed.

"Many minor health problems and complaints such as muscular, minor sports injuries can be solved with self-care.

"Support to manage these conditions can be given by a local pharmacist and if it’s an on-going problem then a GP can advise.

"It is also important to be prepared if the weather does turn particularly cold, making plans now could help you stay warm and well during any bad weather."

Emergency departments across the county continue to be extremely busy, so patients are urged to remember that A&E is for serious and life-threatening emergencies only and there are a number of other health services available to them.