A new pilot is underway in Forth Valley to improve access to medications for common conditions – and alleviate pressure on A&E and out-of-hours services.
The festive scheme is being organised by NHS Forth Valley between December 15 and January 19, with these weeks traditionally the busiest of the year for stretched hospital staff.
A pair of pharmacies – Woodside Pharmacy in Doune and Right Medicine in Bridge of Allan – will open between 10am and 5pm on the six Sundays covered in the time period.
There will be no need for a GP prescription when coming along and the pharmacists at both sites are experienced independent prescribers who will be able to offer advice and treatment for a range of conditions.
These include chest infections, sore throats and sinusitis, conditions which often require an appointment at a GP practice – with pharmacists able to hand out antibiotics if this is deemed necessary.
Treatments are provided free of charge as part of a national scheme called Pharmacy First plus.
Festive opening hours for pharmacies offering regular services are also available via nhsforthvalley.com/health-services/az-of-services/winter-zone/
Other advice from local health chiefs includes ensuring that anyone eligible for the flu or Covid-19 booster vaccination receives this as soon as they can.
Dr Jennifer Champion, NHS Forth Valley’s Acting Director of Public Health, said: “With recent increase in cases of flu it’s more important than ever to get vaccinated if you’re eligible. This is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones by reducing the chances of serious illness and hospitalisation.”
“There is still time to get vaccinated before the start of the festive period when you are more likely to be socialising more with friends and family so check the NHS Forth Valley website for details of local vaccination clinics or call the national vaccination helpline on 0800 030 8013.”