IMN Content - Lifestyle and Consumer Content

Repeat Prescriptions Put GP’s Under ‘Unnecessary Pressure’

With many struggling to get a convenient GP appointment during the working week, more pressure is put on GP's surgeries.
Health - 27 January 2010   Download IconContent available for download:  
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1.3 million prescriptions are currently issued every working day in England and this is expected to rise by 5% each year. 70% of these prescriptions are for repeat medication and GP consultations for minor ailments total 57 million a year, millions of which could be dealt with by a pharmacist.

31% of people find it difficult to get a convenient GP appointment and in the 2009/10 patient survey, only 11% of patients said they were then seen at their actual appointment time.

Latest figures show that almost a fifth (19.1%) of us work more than 45 hours a week and 54% of patients would like their GP practice to open additional hours despite sites registered by the Royal Pharmaceutical Society being in a position to alleviate pressures on GPs and the NHS.

. Introduction:

Many of us may well feel we work too hard with latest figures showing that almost a fifth of us are at the grindstone for over 45 hours a week. It’s no surprise then that visiting our GP can be difficult. Almost a third of us struggle to get a convenient appointment time and only 11% of patients are then seen on time. GPs are often tied up with minor complaints or appointments regarding repeat medications that could be dealt with by a pharmacist which in turn, could reduce waiting times next time you really need an appointment to see your GP.

. Suggested Questions:

How many people in our area would like their GP practice to open additional hours?

What ailments should we consult our GP for and which can a pharmacist safely deal with?

How do online pharmacy services help GPs and the patient?

How can we identify a legitimate site?

How do online pharmacy sites work?

Where can we find out more information?