1.Common Ailments Service – Free Advice & Treatment at Your Local Pharmacy
1.1 What is the Common Ailments Service?
The Common Ailments Service allows you to receive free advice and treatment for a range of minor health conditions without needing a GP appointment.
1.2 How Does It Work?
If you have a common ailment, you can visit your local pharmacy and speak to a qualified pharmacist for expert advice. The pharmacist may ask if you’d like to register for the service, which enables them to provide free medication if necessary.
1.3 What Conditions Are Covered?
You can receive treatment for various minor illnesses, including:
- Skin & Hair Conditions – Acne, Athlete’s Foot, Cold Sores, Dermatitis, Dry Eyes, Head Lice, Mouth Ulcers, Verrucas, Ringworm, Scabies, Ingrowing Toenails
- Digestive Issues – Indigestion, Constipation, Diarrhoea, Piles
- Children’s Ailments – Teething, Nappy Rash, Colic, Chickenpox, Threadworms
- Seasonal & Allergies – Hay Fever, Sore Throat, Eye Infections
- Women’s Health – Vaginal Thrush, Oral Thrush
- Pain & Other Complaints – Back Pain, Intertrigo
You don’t need to book an appointment – simply visit a participating pharmacy at a time that suits you. Some pharmacists may request proof of identification to confirm your eligibility. They will check your details against the NHS Wales Welsh Demographic Service to ensure you are registered with a GP Practice in Wales.
2.1 What Happens During Your Visit?
- You will have a private consultation with a trained pharmacist.
- If the pharmacist determines that medication is required, they may supply it free of charge.
- If you prefer not to register for the service, the pharmacist can still offer advice, but they won’t be able to provide free medicine.
2.2 Who Can Use This Service?
This service is available to anyone living in Wales who is registered with a GP practice.
2.3 Do I Still Need to See My GP?
You should see your GP if:
- The pharmacist advises you to.
- You require a prescription-only medicine.
2.4 Can I Use Different Pharmacies?
You can continue using other pharmacies for buying medication or collecting prescriptions. However:
- You must use the same pharmacy for free treatment under the Common Ailments Service.
- Using one pharmacy for all your prescriptions ensures they have a complete record of your medications, helping to keep your treatment safe and effective.
For more information, visit your local Greenhill Medical Centre or speak to your nearest pharmacy.