Services Database Self-Care Medicines Scheme

Aims and intended service outcomes

• To improve access and choice for people with minor ailments by:
  (i) Promoting self-care through pharmacy and supply of medicines to people on
  low income, without the need to visit the GP practice.
  (ii) Facilitate a referral system from local general practices or other primary care
  providers; and
  (iii) Supplying appropriate medicines and devices at NHS expense.
• To improve primary care capacity by reducing general practice workload related to
  minor ailments.
• To reduce the number of patients attending urgent care with minor ailments.
• To reduce the number of calls to out of hours services by patients with minor
  ailments.