The NHS spends an estimated £569 million every year on prescribing medicines that can be bought over the counter without a prescription.
NHS England and Coastal West Sussex CCG have asked surgeries to encourage their patients to consider purchasing medication over the counter where possible. Medicines from the pharmacy are generally cheaper than a prescription charge. Please note that even if you get free prescriptions you are not automatically exempt from this guidance.
You do not need to make an appointment to speak to the pharmacist, just pop in anytime and they will be happy to help you. Community pharmacists have the knowledge and skills to help and advise you on treating common conditions and how to use medicines.
A list of pharmacies in the area is available here www.nhs.uk/chemist
Further information on self-care for different conditions can be found here:
http://stlawrencesurgery-
If at any time you are concerned about your condition you should contact the local pharmacist or the surgery for more advice.
Please contact the surgery for further advice on 01903 222900.
This policy also has the support of the St Lawrence Surgery Patient Participation Group.