From today pharmacists across the country will be able to treat more health conditions without patients needing to see a GP, helping to unlock ten million doctors’ appointments as we stick to the plan to cut waiting lists so people can get the care they need.
- We have made progress to cut waiting lists but there is more that can be done to make better use of professionals such as pharmacists to cut them further. That is why today we are launching Pharmacy First as part of our primary care recovery plan, meaning pharmacists can treat seven common health conditions such as sinusitis and earache without patients needing to see a GP.
- This will help free up ten million doctors’ appointments, meaning those who genuinely need to see a GP can do so more quickly, helping to continue to drive down wait times in contrast to Labour run Wales where patients consistently wait longer because Labour do not have a plan.
Pharmacists are one of the most responsible professions within the community. They must maintain exceptional levels of knowledge and efficiency to ensure that all drugs in their control are administered correctly. They must ensure that patients are issued with safe and proper medicines.
Becoming a pharmacist requires a combination of academic qualifications and practical experience. The steps typically include:
- Obtaining a Master of Pharmacy degree (MPharm) that is approved by the GPhC. This is a four-year course on a full-time basis.
- Completing a one-year pre-registration training programme within a pharmacy setting.
- Passing the GPhC registration exam.
