James Milner, Head of Pharmacy and Workforce at NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin has recently spoken with BBC Radio Shropshire about the valuable services provided by community pharmacies and how they can help alleviate pressure on A&E departments and GPs during the winter months.
In the interview, James highlights the range of medicines and remedies available at pharmacies without the need for a prescription, as well as some of the routine checks pharmacies can offer. Not all illnesses require a visit to a doctor. Community pharmacists are trained to provide expert advice on a variety of minor ailments and conditions. Many pharmacies also offer extended hours compared to GPs, and all pharmacies across Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin have private consultation rooms available.
Through the ‘Pharmacy First’ scheme, community pharmacists can now also supply prescription-only medicines for the treatment of seven common health conditions, eliminating the need to see a GP for conditions such as sinusitis, sore throat, earache, infected insect bites, impetigo, shingles and uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women.
Listen to the full interview by clicking the play icon below.
