Your local pharmacist will offer professional free health advice at any time – you don’t need an appointment. From coughs and colds to aches and pains, they can give you expert help on everyday illnesses. They can answer questions about prescribed and over-the-counter medicines. Your local Pharmacist can also advise on healthy eating.
Pharmacists can also advise on health eating, obesity and giving up smoking. Some pharmacists have private areas where you can talk in confidence. They may suggest you visit your GP for more serious symptoms. It is possible to purchase many medicines from the chemist without a prescription.
Common issues that your local pharmacist can give you expert help on are listed below:
NHS guidelines for prescribing medicines for minor conditions have changed. The NHS has listed a number of conditions where it is recommended that you seek advice from your pharmacist and purchase medicines which are often low cost. NHS guidance asks practices to advise you to seek advice and medicines at your pharmacy for the conditions listed below.
You can get advice and purchase medicines at little cost from community pharmacies rather than getting a prescription.
Some medicines are also available from supermarkets and other shops.