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Pharmacy plan ‘risk to patients’
THEdangers of a new scheme en- couraging patients to consult pharmacists before doctors for many common ailments have been highlighted by a leadingGP member of the NHS West Kent Clinical Commissioning Group. Dr David Chesover, who prac-
tises in Larkfield, told a group meeting: Two skin cancer cases had been prescribed steroid creams. One gastric cancer casewas given the anti-acid Gaviscon. Apatient was prescribed paracetemol for an earache later diagnosed as malignant otitis ex- terna – a rare deep-seated ear canal infection requiring specific investigation and treatment. Dr Chesover, who said he had
several other examples, was as- sured the pilot scheme was being monitored to ensure safety and ef- fectiveness. The group has introduced a pro-
tocol for GPreception staff dealing with requests for appointments for a variety of minor ailments includ- ing cold sores, constipation or di-
arrhoea, coughs, cystitis, earache, headache, eczema, rashes, hay fever, indigestion, insect bites, colds, flu-like symptoms and soft tissue injury. Pharmacies can prescribe only medicines and quantities listed for each common ailment. Patients are asked if they would
like to receive treatment from a pharmacy and are directed for a consultation and treatment. They can see a doctor or nurse if pre- ferred and are offered an appoint- ment for all other ailments. Community or hospital pharma-
cists have to complete a form handed to all Pharmacy First pa- tients indicating symptoms, medi- cines supplied and their recommendations for any GP ap- pointment. Patients are asked to pass forms to their GP. The scheme aims to reduce GP
workload; widen patient access to advice and treatments; promote the role of pharmacists and self care and improve relationships be- tween primary care pharmacy and medical services.
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Young cricketers’ success
ALLINGTON Primary School won the Maidstone area Kwik Cricket Plate, contested by 22 schools. Plate runners-upwere Shernold. Prizeswere pre- sented by Alex Fordham, captain of The Mote CC, which is expanding its colts section with coaching for seven to 17-year-olds (call 07975 609730).
More time to claim flood relief
FLOOD-hit residents and busi- nesses have been given more time to apply for council tax discounts and business rates relief from Maidstone Council. The deadline for applications
has now been extended to Sep- tember 1, 2014. Maidstone Council’s head of revenues and benefits shared services, StephenMcGinnes, said: “We know there are lots of resi- dents and businesses who were affected by the flooding who
haven’t applied for the discount, so we’ve extended the deadline to make sure everyone has as much opportunity as possible to receive this support.” Anyone who pays council tax
or business rates on a property that flooded – including private rental tenants – can apply to the schemes. Details and application forms
are available at
www.maid-
stone.gov.uk/winter, or call 01622 602003.
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