Don’t forget your pharmacist is on hand to help over the Christmas period

The Welsh Government’s Choose Pharmacy service is seeing pharmacists take responsibility for managing a range of minor ailments. People will be able to see their pharmacist for free treatment instead of making an appointment to see their GP.

In an emergency when people run out of their prescribed medicines, pharmacies can provide a supply of prescribed medicines without the need to visit their GP. They can also help with reviewing medicines when people are discharged from hospital.

Andrew Evans said: 

“It is important that people remember there will effectively be a ‘five day weekend’ from 23 – 27 December this year with in-hours GP services closed for the vast majority of that period. People with repeat prescriptions should check they aren’t going to run out over the Christmas period and speak to their pharmacist if they need a further supply. 

“Highly skilled pharmacists are on hand over the Christmas period to help with a range of ailments from coughs and colds, to ear aches, conjunctivitis, head lice and even headaches and digestive problems brought about by over indulging during the festive period.

“By visiting the pharmacist in the first instance people can help free up GPs so they can care for patients with more complex needs. Pharmacists will be dispensing advice during this time, helping people to stay in their community, and limiting pressure on our ambulance services and emergency services.”