A new NHS scheme enabling patients to get medication for seven common conditions at a pharmacy without needing to see a GP has been praised by the Conservative parliamentary candidate for Farnham & Bordon, Greg Stafford.

Pharmacy First services have been launched at pharmacies across Farnham and Bordon, as part of Government plans to deliver 10 million more GP appointments and speed up access to care nationwide.

The scheme will enable community pharmacists to supply prescription-only medicines, including antibiotics and antivirals where clinically appropriate, to treat seven common health conditions without the need to visit a GP. These are:

You can get treatment for these conditions by walking into the pharmacy or contacting them virtually. GP receptionists, NHS 111 and providers of emergency care will also be able to direct patients to pharmacies, that offer the service, if contacted.

Mr Stafford, himself an NHS director, said:  “The pandemic put huge pressure on our NHS services here in Farnham and Bordon and as we continue with our recovery, it is essential that patients receive the care they need quickly and easily.

“That is why I am delighted that the Conservative Government has launched the Pharmacy First approach, using the skills of our pharmacists to treat more people in the community without the need for a GP appointment – speeding up their own care as well as reducing pressure on local GP services.

“I was delighted to speak to local pharmacist, Bushra Sharif from Vaughan James Pharmacy in Farnham, about the amazing opportunities this will open up for both pharmacists, and more importantly local patients.

“We are sticking with the plan to improve access to care and cut NHS waiting lists, delivering on the Prime Minister’s priority so that that everyone can access the treatment they need.”