access medication for a number of minor ailments without the need for a prescription
Under the minor ailment supply service, people suffering from a number of specified conditions can receive the treatment they need from their pharmacy following a referral from their GP practice.
In order to access the service, people still need to call their GP practice, but the practice will be able to refer them straight to the pharmacy of their choice, rather than require them to attend an appointment in their practice.
Conditions for which people can access the appropriate medication under the minor ailment supply service include:
• Bites/stings
• Colds
• Congestion
• Ear or eye complaints
• Hayfever
• Thrush
• Skin conditions, such as acne or athlete’s foot
• Mouth and throat issues, such as cold sore blisters
• Swellings, such as of the ankle, foot or lower limb.
If the patient does not pay for their prescriptions, they will not pay for the medicines supply.
NHS Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board, which plans and manages health and care services across the region, has launched the service to allow those suffering from minor ailments to receive faster, more appropriate support and free up much-needed GP appointments for patients with more complex needs.