Granta Medical Practices - May news

Community Pharmacist Consultation Service (CPCS) - for treatment of minor illnesses

What is CPCS?

When you call us, our receptionists will ask about your symptoms. If your symptoms indicate that you can be helped by a pharmacist, you will be offered a same-day private consultation with a community pharmacist.

Pharmacists are qualified healthcare professionals and experts in medicines. They can offer clinical advice and over-the-counter medicines for all sorts of minor illnesses, and a same day consultation can be arranged quickly and at a time to suit you. This in turns frees up GP appointments for those people with more complex symptoms who really need to see a GP.

How does it work?

We will forward your details to the pharmacist, along with details of your minor illness. The pharmacist will contact you to arrange your consultation on the same day, or at a time that suits you. You may be seen in person in a private consulting room if the pharmacist thinks it appropriate, or your consultation may be carried out over the phone or via video. You will be asked about your medical history and symptoms and current medication, in the same way the GP would ask you about them. Usually, the pharmacist will provide you with advice and can recommend an over the counter product if needed. Details of your consultation with them will be sent to us for our records.

If the pharmacist feels you need to be seen by a GP urgently, they will call us to ensure you are seen, or they will advise you to contact the hospital Emergency Department if deemed necessary. You may also be referred back to us to arrange a non-urgent appointment or follow up.

Why is this a good thing for patients?

Community pharmacies are local, can be open longer hours than us and can offer you the same consultation outcome at a time that is convenient for you. If the pharmacist thinks you need to see a GP, they can help arrange an urgent appointment for you. Patients who have already used this service liked the convenience of having a consultation on the same day, or a day that suited them, at a pharmacy of their choice.

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me on 01223 627743 or email me sandra.east@nhs.net