Sir, – Pharmacists want to manage minor illnesses such as scabies, thrush, dry eye and "to alleviate pressure on overworked GPs" ("Chemists seek scheme for minor ailments", News, January 8th).
It appears to be a good idea at first glance, as it would save the patient from having to make a visit to the GP and then another visit to the pharmacy.
Perhaps it could also be arranged that GPs would be allowed to dispense antibiotics and other drugs directly to the patient, thereby saving sick patients the expense and inconvenience of making a further trip to the pharmacy once they’ve got their prescription. – Yours, etc,
Dr TOM O’ROURKE,
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Gorey, Co Wexford.