Migraines and acne among five more conditions pharmacists can treat
Pharmacies in England will soon offer treatments for a total of 12 common conditions which save people going to their GP first.
In England, pharmacists will soon be able to prescribe medication for 12 common conditions, including five new conditions such as migraines, acne, scabies, ear infections, and blocked noses. This change aims to ease pressure on busy GPs and A&E departments, allowing people to receive treatment quickly and conveniently. Prime Minister Andy Burnham stated that people are tired of the scramble for routine appointments and desire help close to home.
The five new conditions that can now be treated at pharmacies are mild to moderate acne, which affects young people and adults, as well as migraines, acne, scabies, ear infections, and blocked noses. Initially, a few hundred chemists will offer treatments for these conditions, with a gradual rollout eventually making the service available at thousands of community NHS pharmacies across England.
Other services provided by community pharmacies include support with healthy eating, exercise, stopping smoking, monitoring blood pressure, contraception, flu and Covid vaccinations. The Migraine Trust welcomed the news, calling it a wonderful opportunity for faster and improved migraine care. However, pharmacy associations have expressed concerns about the funding provided by the government, which they say does not cover the increased workload for the new plans.
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