Pharmacists can provide advice, over-the-counter medicines and even some prescription treatments without patients having to go through a GP first
Autumn often ushers in a wave of health problems, leading to potentially long queues and delays at local GP surgeries. However, patients suffering from certain conditions might be able to bypass all this and seek assistance from their local pharmacy instead.
Pharmacists are equipped to provide advice, over-the-counter treatments and even some prescription medications without the need for a prior GP consultation. Even if your condition falls outside their area of expertise, they can direct you to the most suitable healthcare professional who can assist.
Through the Pharmacy First scheme, patients can get certain prescription medication straight from their pharmacist rather than a GP. This includes prescription treatment for conditions like:
- Impetigo in patients over one year old
- Infected insect bites in patients over one year old
- Earache in patients between one and 17 years old
- Sore throat in patients over five years old
- Sinusitis in patients over 12 years old
- Urinary Tract Infections in women between age 16 and 64
- Shingles in patients over 18 years old
Experts at Landys Chemist have compiled a comprehensive list of 12 common ailments that pharmacists should be able to advise and provide treatment for without requiring input from a GP. This includes cold and flu symptoms like coughs, congestion, sore throats, runny noses and fever.
Pharmacists can also provide advice and treatment for seasonal or mild allergies, aches and pains. Certain minor digestive issues such as indigestion, heartburn, diarrhoea and constipation also fall within their expertise.
Pharmacists are equipped to deal with a variety of skin problems, from minor rashes and insect bites to sunburn, as well as minor infections, cuts, abrasions, and bruises. They can also assist with urinary tract infections and minor eye conditions.
For those in need of contraception, pharmacists can provide pills, advice, and emergency contraception without the necessity of a GP visit. Pharmacies also offer health checks and vaccinations, such as blood pressure, cholesterol, or blood sugar tests, and travel jabs that you’d typically get at your local surgery.
When it comes to facial issues, pharmacists are on hand to help with minor concerns like irritated eyes, earache, earwax, mouth ulcers, cold sores, and gingivitis.
Rhysa Phommachanh, a Health & Personal Care Specialist, said: “Pharmacists are highly trained professionals and can offer expert clinical advice and over-the-counter treatments for minor illnesses and injuries. If symptoms suggest something more serious, they can also guide you on when to seek further help from a GP or another healthcare professional.
“While pharmacists are valuable resources for advice on over-the-counter medications and minor illnesses, it’s crucial to consult a doctor, call 111, or visit A&E in an emergency if your symptoms are severe or if you have any doubts. While pharmacists can’t diagnose complex conditions, turning to them for minor issues helps ease the pressure on GPs, allowing doctors to focus on patients with more urgent needs.”
Beyond treating minor ailments, local chemists offer a variety of services such as disposal of unwanted or expired medicines, guidance on quitting smoking, substance misuse services and weight management advice.