In the year prior to June 2017, the NHS spent approximately £569 million on prescriptions for medicines for minor conditions, which could otherwise be purchased over the counter (OTC) from a pharmacy and/or other outlets such as petrol stations or supermarkets.
The costs to the NHS for many of the items used to treat minor conditions are often higher than the prices for which they can be purchased over the counter as there are hidden costs. For example, a pack of 12 anti-sickness tablets can be purchased for £2.18 from a pharmacy whereas the actual total cost for the NHS is over £35 when you include GP consultation and other administration costs.
More cost-effective use of stretched NHS resources allows money to be spent where it is most needed, whilst improving patient outcomes. As an example, every £1m saved on prescriptions for over the counter treatments could fund (approx.)
Northumberland CCG is asking practices not to prescribe treatments for minor and self-limiting conditions if the treatment can be bought over the counter. Please help us by buying medication such as: