A TOP doctor in Oldham is sending out a call to the public to “choose the right” care this winter as temperatures plummet.

Dr John Patterson has said there are many things people can do to make sure their families stay healthy.

He urged people to stocking up on over-the-counter remedies, get a flu jab, make sure the heating is set and working properly, to for healthy, nourished foods and choose the right type of healthcare when it’s needed.

Getting the right health advice at the right time is now even easier, said Dr Patterson who is chief clinical officer for NHS Oldham Clinical Commissioning Group, part of the Oldham Cares health and social care alliance, and GP at Hilltop Practice in Fitton Hill.

And getting the right health advice at the right time is now even easier, says Dr John Patterson, chief clinical officer for NHS Oldham CCG, part of the Oldham Cares health and social care alliance, and GP at Hilltop Practice in Fitton Hill.

He said: “Your local pharmacy is your fastest route to care, and you can visit them at the first sign of illness.

“These over the counter medical experts can help stop conditions like a cough or cold from getting worse, and many are open round the clock, meaning that people have even more access to healthcare advice during the evenings and at the weekend.”

He went on to say those who are eligible should get their free flu jab.

He said: “These are people in the ‘at risk’ groups – people aged over 65, people with long-term health conditions like asthma and diabetes, pregnant women, people with a body mass index (BMI) of over 40 and carers.

“A nasal flu vaccination is also offered to children free of charge. Parents of toddlers aged two or three can get them vaccinated at their GP surgery. School children from reception up to year four receive their vaccination at school, which parents can give their consent for.”