Roscommon town pharmacist, David Hynes, has welcomed the news that Roscommon town would be included in the pilot Minor Ailment Scheme which was announced recently by Minister for Health Leo Varadkar.
“We’re delighted Roscommon town has been chosen for this pilot and we’re looking forward to getting started. It will mean easier access to medicines for patients.”
The scheme, which was announced at the IPU National Pharmacy Conference held in Dublin, will allow medical card holders to receive treatment for common illnesses including dry eye, dry skin, scabies, threadworms and vaginal thrush directly from their local pharmacy without the need for a visit to the GP. The scheme would also be cost neutral to the Exchequer.
Commenting on the announcement, out-going Irish Pharmacy Union President Kathy Maher said: “The IPU is delighted that this pilot will commence on the 1st of June. We look forward to working with other healthcare professionals, including GPs, to deliver a service that will not only benefit patients but also reduce the pressure on hard-working local GPs allowing them to focus their valuable time on treating patients with more complex conditions, making better use of their resources.”
