Patients in the North East and North Cumbria can now visit their local pharmacists for seven common health conditions.
Over 600 pharmacies are now able to provide expert advice and medication for the likes of sinusitis, sore throats, and shingles without the need for a GP appointment.
Earache, impetigo, and insect bite infections can also be treated under the new scheme planned to boost care access and grant GPs additional time for patients with more serious conditions.
Ewan Maule, director of medicines and pharmacy for NHS North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB), said "Local pharmacies are at the heart of our communities and this new service will make it quicker and easier for thousands of people across the region to access NHS care."
Women under 65 can also now receive advice and treatment for uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) without needing a GP appointment or prescription, building on a successful pilot scheme.
Mr Maule added: "More than 30,000 women have already benefited from this service.
"It's fantastic to see the UTI service now rolled out nationwide"
The initiative is part of the NHS primary care access recovery plan, a commitment to ease healthcare access for millions.
Share