In-line with NHS England recommendations, NHS Dorset has asked GP teams to stop prescribing medicine and treatment for 35 minor conditions listed on this page. This allows GPs to focus on caring for people who have more complex needs.
NHS Dorset wants people to have the confidence to look after themselves where they can. This gives people greater control of their health without the need to visit their GP for minor conditions.
We may no longer give you a prescription for over the counter medicines for a range of minor health concerns, even if you qualify for free prescriptions.
You will be contacted by the clinical pharmacy team if any of your medications fall within the below list:
- Acute sore throat
- Conjunctivitis
- Coughs, colds and nasal congestion
- Cradle cap
- Dandruff
- Diarrhoea (adults)
- Dry eyes/sore tired eyes
- Earwax
- Excessive sweating
- Haemorrhoids
- Head lice
- Indigestion and heartburn
- Infant colic
- Infrequent cold sores of the lip
- Infrequent constipation
- Infrequent migraine
- Insect bites and stings
- Mild acne
- Minor burns and scalds
- Mild cystitis
- Mild dry skin
- Mild irritant dermatitis
- Mild to moderate hay fever
- Minor conditions associated with pain, discomfort and fever (e.g. aches and sprains, headache, period pain, back pain)
- Mouth ulcers
- Nappy rash
- Oral thrush
- Prevention of tooth decay
- Ringworm/athlete’s foot
- Sunburn
- Sun protection
- Teething/mild toothache
- Threadworms
- Travel sickness
- Warts and verrucae
Instead you will need to buy your medicines from a pharmacy or supermarket in your local community.
The team of health professionals at your local pharmacy can offer help and clinical advice to manage minor health concerns and if your symptoms suggest it’s more serious, they’ll ensure you get the care you need.
If you wish to raise a complaint regarding the stopping of your medication, please contact NHS Dorset via their customer care email: [email protected]
If we receive a complaint from you we will redirect you to the above contact.
For more information please visit: Help Your NHS – NHS Dorset