Home   News   Article

Residents urged to go to community pharmacies with minor illnesses


By Alan Hendry

Easier access to your trusted, local news. Subscribe to a digital package and support local news publishing.



Click here to sign up to our free newsletters!

Residents across the Highlands are being encouraged to visit their community pharmacy for advice and support to treat minor illnesses or common conditions following the launch of a new NHS Pharmacy First Scotland service this week.

Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Maree Todd says the new service will allow community pharmacies to give people expert help for treating ailments such as sore throats, earache and cold sores, along with common clinical conditions such as urinary tract infections. Pharmacy teams will offer advice, treatment or referral to other healthcare teams if required.

The move will enable residents to access the right care without having to visit their GP pharmacy or an A&E department for non-urgent treatment, Ms Todd, a pharmacist by profession, points out.

A&E departments remain open for emergency care – with the necessary public health measures in place to protect staff and patients.

“The launch of NHS Pharmacy First Scotland means that people in the Highlands and Islands and across Scotland will get the right care and medical support closer to home – often with no waiting time or appointments needed," Ms Todd said.

“In recent months, perhaps more than ever, the NHS has been there to protect us – but many of us don’t need to visit A&E to get the care we need.

“This new service will provide a local approach to ensure the community has access to healthcare for more minor ailments.

Maree Todd, a Highlands and Islands SNP MSP and a pharmacist by profession.
Maree Todd, a Highlands and Islands SNP MSP and a pharmacist by profession.

“Let’s remember, though – in an emergency you should always contact 999 or go to your nearest accident and emergency department.”

Martin Green, chairman of Community Pharmacy Scotland, said: “NHS Pharmacy First Scotland is an exciting service development for everyone. It recognises the role that the community pharmacy network can play in helping patients and the wider NHS team by ensuring people get the right care in the right place.

“Pharmacists, supported by their pharmacy teams, will be able to offer consultations for anyone with minor illnesses and provide the appropriate advice and support.”


Do you want to respond to this article? If so, click here to submit your thoughts and they may be published in print.



This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies - Learn More