Plans for some prescriptions to be given without GP sign-off

Treatments for seven common conditions including earache, sore throat and urinary tract infections will be available without seeing a doctor under plans announced by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.

This is part of a blueprint to ease the pressure on GPs’ appointments, freeing up millions of slots over the next couple of years.

Pharmacists themselves would be able to write the prescriptions under the reform that ministers hope will be introduced this winter after a consultation with the industry.

Treatments for seven common conditions including earache, sore throat and urinary tract infections will be available without a GP sign-off under new proposals (Image: Julien Behal/PA Wire)

Self-referrals will also be increased for access to services such as physiotherapy, hearing tests and podiatry without the requirement to see a GP first.

What did the Prime Minister say about the plans?

Speaking about the proposals, Mr Sunak said: “I know how frustrating it is to be stuck on hold to your GP practice when you or a family member desperately need an appointment for a common illness.

“We will end the 8am rush and expand the services offered by pharmacies, meaning patients can get their medication quickly and easily.”

NHS chief executive Amanda Pritchard said the “ambitious package” will help transform how care is provided within the health service.

“This blueprint will help us to free up millions of appointments for those who need them most, as well as supporting staff so that they can do less admin and spend more time with patients,” she said.

The other medications that GPs would be able to hand out would treat conditions including sinusitis, infected insect bite, impetigo and shingles.