Services Database Minor Ailments Service

The scheme aims to ensure that patients access self-care advice for the treatment of minor ailments (in particular winter ailments) and where appropriate can be supplied with over the counter (OTC) medicines at NHS expense, in order to treat their minor ailment. This provides patients with an alternative and more accessible location from which to seek advice and treatment, rather than seeking treatment via a prescription from their GP, out of hours (OOH) provider, via a Walk In Centre or Emergency Departments (EDs).

In summary:

• the scheme will improve patient access to advice and appropriate treatment for minor ailments;
• reduce GP, OOH and ED workload for minor ailments increasing capacity for greater focus to be delivered on more complex and urgent medical conditions;
• promote the role of the pharmacist and self-care; and
• further develop working relationships between doctors and pharmacists in the Gloucester City Locality.

The pharmacy contractor has a duty to ensure that pharmacists and staff involved in the provision of the service have relevant knowledge and are appropriately trained in the operation of the
service. Submission of a Pharmacist Declaration of Competence document following completion of the CPPE Minor Ailment e-assessment is required.