Nigel Huddleston MP has given his backing to the Government's new pharmacy scheme.

'Pharmacy First' allows patients in England to obtain prescription-only treatment for seven commonplace conditions directly from their nearest pharmacy, skipping the need for a doctor's appointment.

These conditions include sinusitis, acute sore throat, minor ear infections, an infected insect bite, impetigo, shingles, and uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women.

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By 2026, all newly qualified pharmacists are predicted to be independent prescribers from their day of registration.

Mr Huddleston, MP for Mid Worcestershire, said: "The pandemic put huge pressures on our NHS services here in Worcestershire and as we continue with our recovery, it is essential that patients receive the care they need quickly and easily."

"That is why I am delighted that the Government has launched 'Pharmacy First', using the skills of our pharmacists to treat more people in the community without the need for a GP appointment – speeding up their own care as well as reducing pressure on local GP services."

He added: "At least 114 pharmacies have signed up to Pharmacy First across Herefordshire and Worcestershire ensuring that local people can access care. We are sticking with the plan to improve access to care and cut NHS waiting lists, delivering on the Prime Minister’s priority so that that everyone can access the treatment they need.”

The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Victoria Atkins, said: "I'm determined to deliver faster, simpler, fairer access to care for patients, and the expansion of Pharmacy First will mean patients can get treatment for common conditions without needing to see their GP first.

"It will free up millions of GP appointments per year and mean that patients can get quick and effective treatment from their local pharmacy. "

NHS chief executive, Amanda Pritchard, said: "This is great news for patients – from today you can pop into one of more than 10,000 high street pharmacies in England to get a consultation on seven common conditions including earache, a sore throat or sinusitis at a convenient time, with many pharmacies open late into the evening."