A PUSH to get patients going to pharmacies with common health complaints should relieve pressure on GPs freeing up appointments for people with more serious ailments.

Nationally, 57 million GP appointments and up to a third of A&E attendances each year are used by people with common health complaints which could be dealt with at a pharmacy.

Now pharmacies are offering Pharmacy First, a new service funded by NHS Airedale, Wharfedale and Craven Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG).

It will help people get fast access to a pharmacist who can give advice and support and supply medicines without the need for a doctor’s appointment.

Dr Colin Renwick, chairman of Airedale, Wharfedale and Craven CCG, said: "This is a scheme which will allow GPs and A&E units to dedicate time to patients with more serious or life-threatening conditions.

"It will also mean that people who have common health issues can go straight to their pharmacy and get the advice and help they need without making a doctor’s appointment. It’s important to remember that pharmacists are qualified healthcare professionals who can help with common health problems. They can advise, treat or refer as necessary.

"I and my fellow Airedale, Wharfedale and Craven doctors are urging people to Think Pharmacy First."

The scheme covers common ailments including athlete's foot, blocked nose, cold, cough, hay fever, sprains and strains and teething.

The service is offered at pharmacies throughout Airedale, Wharfedale and Craven and is available to anyone who is registered at GP practice in those areas.

People should look out for stickers and posters displayed in the window of participating pharmacies.