Pharmacists are getting new powers to make life easier for patients when it comes to common health issues. NHS England is rolling out a big change meaning many can now skip the trip to the GP for seven common conditions. This overhaul promises quicker and more convenient care for millions.
Patients can head straight to the pharmacy for prescriptions if dealing with earache, sore throat , sinusitis, impetigo, shingles, infected insect bites, or urinary tract infections. It's a major step towards saving time and hassle for patients. However, some people are worried that this shift might just put more pressure on pharmacies instead of easing the load on GPs.
Similar schemes in Scotland and Wales have already proven successful. Despite promises from the current Tory government to hire more GPs, the number has actually fallen in recent years, from 28,000 by 500. Boots shoppers praise £10 'holy grail blend’ anti-ageing cream that ‘reduces wrinkles’ Patients can head to the pharmacy for prescriptions for a sore throat ( Image: Getty Images) The new plans are likely to kick in by this winter and the NHS aims to free up a whopping 15 million GP appointments over the next two years.
However, some concerns linger as simply making pills available in pharmacies won't solve the bigger problem of not having enough doctors. There are worries that pharmacies themselves are facing challenges, including funding and workforce issues. Dr Leyla Hannbeck CEO of the Association of Independent.
