Minor Illness

To protect us and the NHS, it’s important you know how to get the right care, in the right place.

Every year, millions of us visit our GP Practice with minor health problems that can be easily resolved without an appointment.

It is estimated that every year, 50 million visits to the GP Practice are made for minor ailments such as coughs and colds, mild eczema, and athlete's foot. By visiting a Pharmacy instead, you could save yourself time and trouble.

Keeping a well stocked medicine cabinet at home can help you treat many minor ailments. Colds, coughs, indigestion and many other minor complaints can all be treated with medicines that are available over the counter. Many medicines can also be purchased from a supermarket at a low cost.

Your pharmacist can advise on what you might find useful to keep in your medicine cabinet. Always follow the instructions on the medicine label and consult your doctor if the illness continues or becomes more severe.

NHS Pharmacy First Scotland is an NHS service provided by your local community pharmacy. 

If you have a minor illness, a pharmacy is the first place you should go for advice.