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Repeat Prescriptions Put Local GPs Under ‘Unnecessary Pressure’

Latest research reveals GP consultations for minor ailments total 57 million a year. With many struggling to get a convenient GP appointment more pressure is put on local surgeries.
Health - 2 February 2010   Download IconContent available for download:  
Audio | Jeff Baker Interview - Repeat Prescriptions| Login to 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.

How can we attend to our more minor medical needs if we don’t see our GP?

Notes to Editors:

The percentage of people by PCT who would like their GP practice to open additional hours is available on request, please contact us using the 'contact us' link above.

. 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?