TREATMENTS for seven conditions such as sore throats and earaches are now available directly from pharmacists, without the need to visit a doctor reports the BBC.
The Pharmacy First scheme will allow most chemists in England to issue prescriptions to patients without appointments or referrals.
It will save GP surgeries an estimated 10 million appointments a year (3.3%).
Pharmacy groups welcome the move but there is concern about funding and recent chemist closures.
The conditions are:
- sore throat
- earache
- sinusitis
- impetigo
- shingles
- infected insect bites
- uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women
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