7 films promote the Pharmacy First service offered at nearly 100 Cornwall pharmacies
This April, 7 locally made films which feature 7 local pharmacies are promoting the 7 conditions that local, highly trained pharmacists can assess and treat under the new Pharmacy First service.
The films aim to raise awareness and understanding of the different conditions for which Cornish residents can receive treatment from 96% of local pharmacies, without needing to see a doctor. These include:
- Earache (age 1 to 17)
- Impetigo, a skin infection
- Infected insect bite
- Shingles (age 18 and over)
- Sinusitis (age 12 and over)
- Sore throat (age 5 and over)
- Uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTI) in women (age 16 to 64)
The films feature pharmacies in Newquay, Penryn, Penzance, Polperro, Redruth and St Austell.
Drew Creek, Chief Operating Officer, Community Pharmacy Cornwall said: “These films are a great way to promote the Pharmacy First service and showcase how local pharmacies can help so many of our residents on their doorstep.
“Our community pharmacies have a long history of providing great, locally delivered care and working closely with GP surgeries in their areas. This service not only benefits local people who can pop in for advice when it suits them, but it will also help free up thousands of GP appointments for those who need them most.”
Dr Chris Reid, Chief Medical Officer for NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Integrated Care Board said: “We’re delighted to see so many pharmacies taking part in providing Pharmacy First to support their communities’ health and well-being.
“We’d like to say thank you to those pharmacists who feature in the films for helping us to explain more about each condition that can be treated, and we hope this will encourage local residents to take up this terrific free service.”
The usual prescription charges and exemptions apply for any medicines issued. An online tool helps people to find their nearest pharmacy and opening times, and further details on the Pharmacy First service, which has criteria and age restrictions: Visit your pharmacy – NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly