Could you see a pharmacist instead?
You may have noticed the posters and leaflets for “Think Pharmacy first”, a new scheme designed to identify patients who may not need to wait for a GP appointment and would be better seeking immediate treatment.
Pharmacists study for five years to become fully trained and are experts in the use of medicines, fully qualified to diagnose and treat minor illnesses and are able to recognise when you may need a doctor’s help.
How does it work?
To qualify for the Pharmacy First scheme you must meet a list of criteria and have one of a specified list of minor ailments.
Eligibilty
In order to be eligible you must meet all of the following criteria:
- Patients must currently have one of the minor ailments listed below.
- Patients must be exempt from prescription charges
- Patients must be able to attend the pharmacy in person, those under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Minor illnesses covered by Pharmacy First
Aches and pains
Back pain, Headache, Migraine, Period pain, Teething, Toothache
Allergies
Bites and stings, Hay Fever, Skin reaction
Colds and Flu
Cough, Congestion, Sore throat, Fever and/or temperature
Ear Care
Earache, Ear infection, Ear wax
Eye Care
Bacterial conjunctivitis (sticky eye), Styes
Headlice
Stomach Aches
Constipation, Diarrhoea, Haemorrhoids, Indigestion, Reflux, Threadworm, Vomiting
Any Skin or Mouth Problem
Athletes foot, Chicken pox, Cold sores, Fungal nail infection, Impetigo (blisters), Nappy rash, Scabies, Skin rash, Vaginal thrush, Warts and Verrucae, Contact dermatitis ( inflammation of skin)
