UK pharmacies have expanded their services to treat minor health conditions without requiring a GP appointment, helping more than five million patients according to NHS figures. Since October, pharmacies also offer the morning-after pill free of charge, with specialists compiling comprehensive lists of conditions pharmacists can now address.
Pharmacists can provide treatment and advice for common cold and flu symptoms, allergies, minor aches and pains, digestive issues, skin conditions, minor infections including urinary tract infections for women, eye and ear problems, minor injuries, and oral health concerns. They also offer health checks for blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar testing, vaccinations including flu jabs and travel vaccines, and contraception and sexual health advice.
Health and Personal Care Specialist Rhysa Phommachanh 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.» She stressed: «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.»
Early flu wave hits NHS
The expanded pharmacy role comes as the NHS faces an early and severe flu season, with cases three times higher than the same period last year. England's top nurse issued a flu jab warning earlier this month, with the flu season hitting more than a month earlier than usual. The NHS has made 2.4 million vaccination slots available for next week, with 13,299,775 flu vaccines already administered since the rollout began.
Phommachanh explained the broader benefit: «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.» Eligible adults can book flu vaccine appointments via the NHS App, GP practices, local pharmacies, or online at www.nhs.uk/bookflu.
Note: This article was created with Artificial Intelligence (AI).
