Maria Caulfield, Member of Parliament for Lewes and Health Minister, has welcomed the launch of the Pharmacy First service which launched today (31st January).
The new Pharmacy First Service will enable community pharmacists to complete episodes of care for patients without the need for the patient to visit their GP. This, alongside expansions to the pharmacy blood pressure checking and contraception services, will save up to 10 million general practice team appointments a year and help patients access quicker and more convenient care, including the supply of appropriate medicines for minor illness.
The Lewes MP and Health Minister joined the Prime Minister at a pharmacy to launch the service. Maria has long been a champion of the Pharmacy First model, including when she was previously the Minister for Primary Care.
The service proposals, competency requirements and funding arrangements for the Pharmacy First Service were co-developed and agreed with Community Pharmacy England (CPE), the body that has been formed by the sector and recognised by the Secretary of State as the representative for all pharmacy contractors in England.
Highly trained pharmacists will be able to assess and treat patients for sinusitis, sore throat, earache, infected insect bite, impetigo, shingles, and uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women (under the age of 65) without the need for a GP appointment or prescription.
Commenting on the launch, Maria Caulfield MP said:
“I am very pleased that the Pharmacy First service has launched, it has massive support amongst pharmacists and over 90% of community pharmacies have signed up to deliver it and residents across Lewes, Seaford, Newhaven and Polegate will have access. I would like to pay tribute to our pharmacists throughout the country who play a vital role in our communities, offering advice and care.”