We are encouraging people to consider their local pharmacy when they have minor ailments.
People often turn up at hospitals or GP practices with minor illnesses and injuries that could often be better treated quicker elsewhere, or at home.
This is particularly important at this time of year, when people may need advice on coughs, colds, sore throats, flu, sickness and diarrhoea and other common winter problems.
Most minor conditions can be treated at home, and your local pharmacist can provide you with advice and support to help you get back on your feet without needing to book a GP appointment.
Many pharmacies also offer additional services such as flu vaccinations, and testing for common conditions like high/low blood pressure and diabetes. South Worcestershire pharmacies also offer a service where some medicines are available free of charge to patients who get free NHS prescriptions, without the need for a prescription from their GP. This service is available to patients registered with south Worcestershire GP practices as part of a pilot project taking place to improve access to primary care.
Pharmacists also provide the chance for patients taking new medication to discuss it and make sure they are taking it correctly, as well as annual reviews for regular patients taking two or more tablets.
Many pharmacies offer seven-day opening, and late hours, meaning that they’re the perfect place for busy people to get the help and advice that they need.
Jane Freeguard, Head of Medicines Commissioning for South Worcestershire Clinical Commissioning Group, said:
“Pharmacists are highly trained healthcare professionals who can help people treat themselves for many common health problems and the best medicines to treat them.
“People tend to think first of their GP when they have a minor illness, but many minor conditions don’t require medical treatment.
“If you have a cold, flu, stomach bug, or a minor strain or sprain, often the best treatment is to rest at home. Treatments at your local pharmacist could help relieve the symptoms so you’re back at your best as soon as possible.”