The NHS should make better use of community Pharmacy teams, audiologists and opticians, says Pharmacy Voice, the National Community Hearing Association (NCHA) and the Optical Confederation.

The organisations believe that by making greater use of community audiologists’, opticians’ and pharmacists’ professional skills, services and capacity, more people would receive hearing and sight tests and easier access to treatment for minor ailments, as well as advice on healthy living and medicines.

“Community pharmacy has a vital role to play in ensuring a sustainable NHS for the future. It is the most accessible healthcare location and able to reach some of the most vulnerable in society. Qualified healthcare professionals with at least five years of training are available without the need for an appointment for expert advice on medicine and healthcare,” said Claire Ward, chair of Pharmacy Voice.

“At the party conferences we will be sharing examples of locally commissioned services that we delivering; whether by supporting healthy living, treating minor ailments or helping those with long term conditions. We will be calling on politicians of all parties to enable community pharmacy to do more to help tackle major public health issues such as obesity, smoking and alcohol and reduce the burden on GPs and A&E."

Pharmacy Voice will have stands at both the Conservative and Labour party conferences, which take place in late September and early October respectively.