A scheme helping reduce pressure on GP services in Llanidloes has been praised by a regional AM.
Mid and West AM Simon Thomas visited Llanidloes Pharmacy to discuss the "common ailments service."
Mr Thomas met with Dylan Jones and Judith Slawson at the pharmacy where they are able to prescribe certain drugs to patients.
It is the only pharmacy undertaking the scheme in Wales.
Mr Thomas said: “The pressure on GPs is immense so anything that relieves that pressure is welcome.
“At Llanidloes’ Pharmacy, the pharmacist is the only one of his kind throughout Wales. He has the right to prescribe to his patients, following terms on health conditions which have been agreed on between himself, the local surgery and the Health Board. In the absence of GPs we have in rural Wales.
“I believe that this is a model that will benefit other communities. So, I hope that people will learn from Llanidloes and spread this possible model across rural Wales.
“This scheme means you can consult a community pharmacist, rather than a doctor, for a defined list of 26 common minor ailments. Patients can then get medical advice and treatment from their pharmacist instead of making an appointment to see their GP.”
Pharmacist Dylan Jones (left) and Judith Slawson with Simon Thomas AM
