People with a worrying cough, problems swallowing or blood in their urine will soon be able to be referred for scans and checks by a pharmacist, rather than having to wait to see their GP.
Plans were announced last month by NHS England following a new pilot scheme, in England, to diagnose more cancers early, when there is a better chance of a cure.
Given the importance of early diagnosis, and the growing pressure on primary care services, it is right that community pharmacies will now be able to refer people for potentially life-saving checks.
Self Care Forum Trustee, and chief pharmacist Ade Williams MBE writes about the implications this policy has on people, the NHS and community pharmacy.
