Migraines and acne among five more conditions pharmacists can treat
The NHS in England is expanding the list of conditions pharmacists can treat without a GP appointment to include migraines, acne, scabies, ear infections, and blocked noses. This initiative aims to reduce the burden on GPs and A&E departments while providing faster care for patients.
Why it matters
This policy shift represents a significant change in healthcare delivery, prioritizing convenience and efficiency to alleviate pressure on primary care services.
Image source, Getty Images By Philippa Roxby Published 13 minutes ago People will be able to go to their local chemist in England this autumn and get on-the-spot treatment for 12 common conditions without going to their GP first.
Pharmacists can already prescribe medication for seven conditions - sore throat, earache, sinusitis, shingles, impetigo, infected bites and urinary tract infections.
Five more - migraines, acne, scabies, ear infections and badly blocked noses - are now also being added to that list.
NHS England said the move was to ease pressure on busy GPs and A&E departments while making sure people could get treatment quickly and conveniently.
After a very hot summer and three of the busiest months on record in A&Es in England, the NHS says it wants to make it as easy as possible for people to get help when they need it for everyday conditions.
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