We are participating in an approach to improve access for patients to GP appointments. The aim is to direct patients to the most appropriate healthcare professional, which could be a pharmacist!
if your symptoms could be resolved by a booked consultation with the pharmacist instead of the GP, you will be given a same-day referral to a pharmacy of your choice.
We think this is a good thing. Once you see how great your local pharmacist is – they are highly trained and skilled clinicians experienced in treating minor illnesses – we don’t think you’ll look back. This will also help us to free up GP appointments for people with more complex health needs and ensure that everyone gets treated at the right time, by the right healthcare professional.
When you call the practice, you will be asked about your symptoms by our reception team. They’ll work through a list of triage questions to determine who the best person is to support you. If your minor illness can best be helped by a pharmacist, we’ll share your details and symptoms with the pharmacy of your choice for them to contact you and arrange a consultation on the same day, or at a time that suits you.
You may be seen in person in a private consulting room if the pharmacist thinks it appropriate, or your consultation could be carried out via phone or video. You will be asked about your medical history, your symptoms and current medication, in the same way the GP would ask you about them.
Usually, the pharmacist will provide you with advice and where needed can recommend an over-the-counter product to buy if you choose. They will also send details of your consultation back to us for our records.
If the pharmacist feels you need to be seen by a GP, they will advise you to contact us or they will direct you to contact an emergency service if deemed necessary.
