- Here at Darwin Medical Practice we are continually looking at ways to improve access for patients to GP appointments. Our aim is to direct patients to the most appropriate healthcare professional within the practice.
- A new service is available that will also allow the practice to direct patients to healthcare professionals within community pharmacies.
- From 1st August 2022 we will be participating in the Community Pharmacist Consultation Service or CPCS, enabling the practice to formally refer patients with minor illnesses to a community pharmacist.
- Patients will be asked a few basic questions about their conditions and, where appropriate and with their agreement, the practice team will refer the patient for a consultation for minor illnesses with a pharmacy of the patients choice.
- Pharmacists are experts in the use of medicines and can provide advice, along with quick and effective treatment for a wide range of conditions.
- Most people are within easy reach of a pharmacy and, with many open in the evening and at weekends, the NHS Community Pharmacist Consultation Service is offering increased convenience and choice, while freeing up GP appointments for patients who may have a more urgent or complex need.
- The following animation provides more information on the new service https://view.vzaar.com/22504178/player