MINOR AILMENTS POLICY

In line with Blackburn with Darwen CCG's Minor Illness Strategy, this practice does not routinely prescribe medicines for self-limiting minor ailments. This includes, amongst others, medicines such as:

• Paracetamol
• Decongestants
• Ibuprofen
• Cough mixtures
• Nappy creams
• Laxatives
• Antihistamines
• Indigestion remedies
• Vitamins

Every year approximately 57 million GP appointments are made for conditions which could be easily treated by the pharmacist.

Pharmacists are trained health professionals who can identify, provide advice and self-medication for the treatment of minor conditions. They can also identify more serious conditions which would need to be seen by your GP.

By visiting you pharmacist you could save yourself time as no appointment is needed and many pharmacies are open in the evening and during the weekend.

By visiting the pharmacist:

• GP appointments would be more readily availalbe for more serious conditions.
• And self-treating minor conditions, more funds would be availalbe for the treatment of life threatening conditions such as cancer.

All information provided to your pharmacist is treated withthe strictness of confidence.