Minor ailment scheme

Question 1

Define what the Minor Ailment Scheme (MAS) is…

Answer 1

‘Minor ailments are defined as ‘common or self-limiting or uncomplicated conditions, which can be diagnosed and managed without medical intervention’.

Question 2

Discuss the effect of minor ailments on GP workload

Answer 2

1. 57 million visits to GPs are made every year for minor ailments
2. national shortage of GPs and the average waiting time for a GP appointment is approximately two weeks
3. Consultations for minor ailments are less expensive when provided through community pharmacy and evidence suggests that the pharmacy based service provides a suitable alternative to GP consultations

Question 3

Discuss the benefits of the community pharmacy MAS using an evidence base

Answer 3

1. Pharmacy based services to treat such ailments were introduced locally across the UK more than ten years ago to reduce the burden of minor ailments on higher cost settings such as general practice and the A&E departments of hospitals.
   2.