Pharmacists would be able to write the prescriptions under the reform that ministers hope will be introduced
The Government says 15 million GP appointments could be freed up over the next two years under a radical shake-up of services provided by pharmacies. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is announcing today that treatments for seven common conditions will now be available without patients having to see a doctor.
Mr Sunak said: "I know how frustrating it is to be stuck on hold to your GP practice when you or a family member desperately need an appointment for a common illness. We will end the 8am rush and expand the services offered by pharmacies, meaning patients can get their medication quickly and easily."Other conditions affected by the overhaul would include sinusitis, infected insect bite, impetigo and shingles. But some concerns have been raised about the proposals.
"He has no plan to address the shortage of GPs, or to reverse the cut in the number of doctors trained every year. The Conservatives’ announcement is merely tinkering at edges, in contrast to the fundamental reform the NHS needs and Labour is offering. Labour will abolish the non-dom tax status to train an extra 7,500 doctors and 10,000 nurses every year, so patients are seen on time again.
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