Can Pharmacists Prescribe Antibiotics For Minor Illnesses Now?

What is Community Pharmacist Consultation Service

The Pharmacy First Service lets local pharmacists take care of patients without them going to their regular doctor. This, along with improvements to blood pressure checks and contraception services, will save up to 10 million doctor appointments yearly, making it quicker and more convenient for patients. This service builds on the earlier Community Pharmacist Consultation Service (CPCS) and has three parts:

• Clinical pathways
• Urgent repeat medicine supply
• NHS referrals for minor illnesses

Under the Pharmacy First scheme, in England, pharmacists can give advice and prescribe antibiotics, making it easier for people to get help saving many GP appointments. Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland already have similar services.

What minor illnesses can pharmacists prescribe medicine for?

You can access the new services just by visiting your local pharmacy. You can also be referred by calling NHS 111, A&E or your GP. Even if you are not registered with a GP in the UK you still can access these services by visiting the local pharmacy. The conditions you can be treated for and get a prescription for are:

• Impetigo -1 year and over
• Infected insect bites – 1 year and over
• Shingles – 18 years and over
• Sinusitis – 12 years and over
• Sore throat – 5 years and over
• Uncomplicated urinary tract infections – Women 16-64 years
• Earache – 1 to 17 years

If a pharmacist diagnoses one of the seven conditions, they can provide medicines to patients instead of sending them back to their GP. Those needing specialised or follow-up care will be referred. Pharmacies also advise on medication usage, side effects, and proper disposal, serving as a go-to place for symptom-related guidance.

Impetigo

Impetigo is a common and highly contagious bacterial skin infection, especially prevalent in children. If you or your child experience:

• Skin Lesions: Look out for red sores or blisters that may burst and form a yellowish-brown crust.
• Itching: The affected area may be itchy.
• Location: Impetigo often occurs around the nose and mouth but can develop on any exposed skin.
• Spread: Scratching can spread the infection to other body parts.
• Contagious: It spreads through direct contact with the sores or items like towels that touch infected skin.
• Types: There are two main types: non-bullous (most common) and bullous (blisters).

Treatment typically involves topical or oral antibiotics. To prevent spread, keep the affected areas clean and avoid scratching.

Infected insect bites

Infected insect bites occur when bacteria or other microorganisms enter the skin through a bite or sting, leading to an infection. While most insect bites improve on their own within a few hours or days, some can result in persistent symptoms. In such cases, the affected area may become infected, requiring additional treatment. Symptoms of an infected insect bite may include:

• Increased redness
• Swelling
• Warmth
• Presence of pus

Treatment for infected insect bites may involve:

• Topical antibiotics
• Systemic antibiotics in severe cases

If you suspect an infected insect bite, seeking medical advice is recommended for appropriate treatment and management.

Shingles

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person has had chickenpox, the virus can remain dormant in the nerve tissues. Years later, it may reactivate and cause shingles. Key points about shingles include:

Painful Rash: Shingles typically present as a painful rash that appears as blotches on one side of the body, following the path of a nerve.

Healing Time: The rash can take up to four weeks to heal and the affected skin may remain painful for weeks after the rash subsides.

Vaccine Availability: A shingles vaccine is available on the NHS for individuals in their 70s, offering preventive protection.

Treatment: While it can be treated at home, seeking medical advice is important. Medications may be prescribed to expedite recovery and prevent potential complications.

If you suspect you have shingles, call 111 or visit your local pharmacist for advice. Prompt treatment can help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of long-term issues.

Sinusitis

Sinusitis is the inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses, the hollow cavities within the skull around the nose. Key points about sinusitis include:

Causes: It is usually caused by a viral infection, such as the common cold, which can lead to a blockage of the sinus passages.

Symptoms: It may include facial pain or pressure, nasal congestion, a runny nose and difficulty breathing through the nose.

Duration: It often resolves on its own within two to three weeks, but medical intervention may be necessary if symptoms persist.

Treatment: Over-the-counter or prescription medications, such as decongestants or nasal corticosteroids, may be recommended. In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed if a bacterial infection is involved.

Allergic Causes: Allergies can contribute to chronic sinusitis and managing allergy symptoms can help prevent recurrent episodes.

Sore throat

A sore throat is a common condition characterised by pain, scratchiness, or irritation of the throat. Here are key points about sore throats:

Causes: Sore throats are often caused by viral infections, such as the common cold or flu. Bacterial infections, like strep throat, can also be a cause.

Symptoms: Symptoms may include pain or a scratchy sensation in the throat, difficulty swallowing and swollen glands.

Duration: Sore throats caused by viral infections typically improve on their own within a week. Bacterial infections may require antibiotic treatment.

Home Remedies: Rest, staying hydrated and using over-the-counter pain relievers or throat lozenges can help alleviate symptoms.

Medical Attention: Seek medical attention if a sore throat persists for more than a week, is severe, or is accompanied by a high fever.

Prevention: Practicing good hygiene, such as regular handwashing, can help prevent the spread of infections that lead to sore throats.

Uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs)

UTIs are common infections that occur in the urinary system. Here are key points about uncomplicated UTIs:

Definition: It involves infections limited to the lower urinary tract, primarily the bladder. They are not associated with structural or functional abnormalities in the urinary system.

Causes: Most uncomplicated cases are caused by bacteria, with Escherichia coli (E. coli) being a common culprit.

Symptoms: Symptoms may include a frequent urge to urinate, pain or burning during urination, cloudy or strong-smelling urine and lower abdominal discomfort.

Diagnosis: Healthcare professionals or pharmacists typically diagnose uncomplicated UTIs based on symptoms and may perform a urine test for confirmation.

Treatment: Antibiotics are commonly prescribed to treat it. It’s important to complete the full course of antibiotics even if symptoms improve.

Prevention: Staying hydrated, practising good hygiene and avoiding irritating substances can help prevent it. Urinating soon after sexual activity may also be beneficial for some individuals.

Otitis media

An ear infection, or otitis media, is a common condition characterised by inflammation or infection of the middle ear. Here are key points about ear infections:

Types: There are two main types of ear infections – acute otitis media (AOM) and otitis media with effusion (OME). AOM is a bacterial or viral infection causing fluid buildup, while OME involves lingering fluid without active infection.

Causes: Ear infections often result from respiratory infections, allergies or sinus infections. In children, the anatomy of the Eustachian tubes makes them more susceptible to fluid buildup.

Symptoms: Common symptoms of an ear infection include ear pain, hearing loss, fluid drainage from the ear, irritability (especially in children) and sometimes fever.

Diagnosis: Healthcare professionals diagnose ear infections by examining the ear using an otoscope. They may assess symptoms and medical history. In some cases, recommend additional tests.

Treatment: Treatment depends on the type and cause of the ear infection. Antibiotics may be prescribed for bacterial infections, while viral infections are managed with supportive care like pain relievers and warm compresses.

Complications: Most ear infections resolve without complications. However, chronic or severe cases can lead to hearing problems, speech or developmental delays in children and other complications.

Prevention: Practices like maintaining good hygiene, addressing allergies, avoiding exposure to secondhand smoke and ensuring vaccinations are up-to-date can help prevent ear infections.

What to expect during the consultation?

When you talk to a pharmacist, they will ask about your symptoms and any past health problems. Also, they might request permission to check your health record. Some examinations can be done physically like checking your throat or ear. This helps your pharmacist decide what’s best for you.

They might suggest an over-the-counter treatment, like cream or recommend specific prescription medicines like antibiotics. In some cases, your chemist might advise you that the problem will get better on its own.

Everything talked about in the appointment with the pharmacist will be written down and shared with your regular GP to keep your health record up to date.

Virtual GP with your health insurance?

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, many health insurance providers now offer online GP services and private in-person consultations. If you have private medical insurance, it means you have more choices for quickly treating minor illnesses. These options provide convenient and timely access to healthcare, allowing you to consult with a doctor either online or in person through your insurance cover.

Stuart Hendy, Senior PMI Advisor &Editor

Stuart Hendy is a highly experienced health insurance broker with extensive knowledge of private medical insurance and private treatment. His expertise is frequently sought by industry professionals and his insights have been featured in leading financial publications. Stuart is committed to providing his clients with the best possible healthcare solutions and empowering them to make informed decisions.

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