Self Care for Shropshire NHS Shropshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) is responsible for the planning and commissioning (buying) of health and care services from a range of providers for the people of Shropshire. The CCG is a clinically led organisation with 41 GP Practices providing healthcare services for patients across the county registered with a local GP.

Did you know? One in every five GP visits are for common conditions, such as backache, headache or a cough. Many patients visit their GP or Accident and Emergency department with common conditions, which could have been treated with advice from their pharmacist. Every time you see a GP it costs the NHS an average of £43 and a visit to Accident and Emergency can cost up to £112. Last year in Shropshire, the NHS spent over £2million on Over the Counter products, items that can be bought without a prescription, which could have been obtained from a pharmacy. You don’t always need to see a GP for minor health conditions - ask your local pharmacist for free advice, no appointment necessary.

What is Self Care? NHS Shropshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) is promoting Self Care in Shropshire. What is self-care? Self-care is about looking after yourself in a healthy way. It can be anything from doing some exercise, managing common conditions (like headaches, colds and flu) to living with a long-term health problem, such as asthma or diabetes. Next time you have a minor condition, why not ask your pharmacist for free advice.

Many common minor health conditions can be safely managed at home without the need for a prescription. You can get free advice from: A pharmacist Call NHS 111 Download the NHS app Visit the NHS website (www.nhs.uk)

Common conditions that can be treated with Self Care These are some common conditions that can be helped with self-care:

Think pharmacist Saving you time and helping you feel better quicker Pharmacists are qualified health professionals and have the knowledge and skills to help and advise you on the best course of action. You may not need to see a doctor but can get helpful advice or buy a treatment for your condition. Remember your pharmacist… Is open late nights and weekends Can be found in local communities, on the high street, in some supermarkets and in shopping centres Can see you without an appointment; just pop in any time and they will be happy to help you A consultation with a pharmacist is confidential. An appointment is not necessary. They are often available in the evenings and at weekends.

More information on self-care Self-care information and advice for a range of minor health conditions and ailments can be found on the NHS Shropshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) website, including hay fever, head lice and sunburn. Visit today to find out more: www.shropshireccg.nhs.uk You don’t always need to see a GP for minor health conditions - ask your local pharmacist for free expert advice, no appointment necessary.

Self Care information There's lots of helpful advice and tips about self-care on the NHS Shropshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) website. Visit our website for more information: www.shropshireccg.nhs.uk