We want to take a moment to reiterate that as a Primary Care service we are and will continue to follow National Signposting guidance.
There are many minor illnesses that do not require medical intervention, many viral illnesses simply require self-care and over the counter medication to relieve some of the symptoms whilst the body’s immune system fights the virus. Our reception team are working to guidelines set by our GP’s following National guidance and will ask all patients a reason for their appointment. In some cases it will be necessary to ask further questions relating to the symptoms presenting just as a non-clinician at NHS 111 services would. We assure you that all our staff observe strict guidelines regarding confidentiality.
The list below are minor conditions that we advise seeing your pharmacist for solely:
- Cold sores
- Dandruff
- Head lice
- Fungal nail infections
- Oral Thrush
- Infrequent constipation (should settle within a few days – can take up to 4 weeks
- Mild Acne
- Mild dry skin, sun protection and sunburn (unless burns are blistered or infected)
- Nappy rash (usually clears 3-7 days)
- Ring worm / Athletes foot
- Mild / Moderate Hay fever (GP’s are not able to prescribe)
- Cradle cap
- Contact dermatitis (mild irritant dermatitis)Definition: is a red , itchy rash caused by direct contact with a substance or an allergic reaction to i. The rash isnt contagious or life threatening, but it can be very uncomfortable. Many substances can cause reactions, including soaps, cosmetics, fragrances, jewellery and plants.
National Guidance also states that the following minor illnesses require Self-care and over the counter medication only:
- Conjunctivitis (over 3yrs)
- Colds / Nasal Congestion
- Diarrhoea (adults)
- Sore throat
- Threadworm
- Hemorrhoids
- Minor burns and scalds
Health services are changing and we need to ensure that patients needing medical attention receive their care. COVID -19 has certainly changed many ways of working and there are back logs throughout the NHS struggling to meet these needs. We are not preventing patients from accessing our services BUT we do ask that our services are used appropriately. There are a number of self-care and lifestyle information leaflets on our website and via NHS online services. Pharmacies can assist you with all of the above conditions. Unless there are further / specific issues related to the above minor illnesses we will not be routinely booking appointments for these going forward.