NHS Forth Valley is reporting results from its version of the Pharmacy First initiative, which it says prove the scheme is 'a big hit'.

With all 76 community pharmacies in the health board area taking part, 3,500 people were treated under the scheme from its launch in March 2016 to the start of April 2017. 

The majority of consultations were for urinary tract infections (79%) followed by impetigo (12%) and the remainder benefited from an existing scheme for pharmacists to prescribe and manage the treatment of people with COPD.

NHS Forth Valley now plans to extend the scope of its Pharmacy First programme to cover bacterial conjunctivitis, vaginal thrush, skin conditions such as eczema and contact dermatitis, and skin infections including cellulitis, insect bites and nail infections.

NHS Forth Valley's Acting Pharmacy Director Scott Hill said: "We are really pleased that the scheme has been successful as it not only helps takes pressure off busy GP services, but also makes it easier for people to access treatment as many pharmacies are open six days a week. Those based in supermarkets are also often open in the evenings and on Sundays."

Community pharmacists carry out a consultation in the pharmacy with the patient, providing advice and treatment if required, under locally agreed patient group directions (PGDs), before submitting monthly claims reports to the NHS Board.