Pharmacists will treat patients with sore throats, earache and other minor complaints GETTY IMAGESUp to 20 million GP appointments a year will be dealt with by pharmacists to cut waiting times. From October patients who phone the NHS 111 helpline with sore throats, headaches, earache and other minor ailments will be offered a same-day appointment with their local pharmacist. Eventually, GPs and A&Es will also refer patients to pharmacies, allowing patients to avoid lengthy waits for medical advice. The Department of Health and Social Care estimates that up to 6 per cent of all GP consultations could be dealt with this way — up to 20 million appointments per year. Matt Hancock, the health secretary, said the scheme would allow pharmacies to “unlock their full potential” while relieving pressure on the wider health service.

Source: The Times July 22, 2019 23:03 UTC