Doctors push back on claims many A&E visits could be managed by community pharmacy

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By Daniel Pye

At least 6 million hours of time in accident and emergency departments were taken up last year by patients with minor ailments, the National Pharmacy Association (NPA) has estimated.

An analysis of NHS England data showed patients going to A&E with things like blocked noses, common colds, acne and requesting routine medication all of which could be dealt with by community pharmacy, the NPA said.