Shropshire Pharmacy services and Consultations

Community pharmacies are offering more services and trying to help take the pressure off GP services. These include ‘Pharmacy First’ which provides consultation services and the supply of appropriate medicines for 7 common conditions including earache, sore throat, and urinary tract infections.

We wanted to hear from anyone who has used pharmacy services for any reason since February 2024. 

Recommendations

1. Consider the suggestions for improvement from the public (above), in particular what can be done to reduce delays in dispensing medication and increasing access to GP appointments.
2. Speak to Pharmacists about their experiences of delivering the Pharmacy First service, in particular any issues around staffing capacity and what they think would help them to provide this service in a more seamless way that builds public confidence.
3. Consider how the Pharmacy First service can be promoted more effectively to different parts of our population, e.g. young people aged 16+ and those with limited access or experience of using technology. Where possible involve these groups in developing your approach through co-production.
4. Ensure there is correct and consistent messaging from GP practice staff and 111 about the Pharmacy First service and how to access it.