How much does it cost?
If you do not pay for your prescriptions all medicines supplied through the scheme will
be free of charge. If you usually pay for your prescriptions you will only pay for
what the item costs.
Will I be able to have the medicines I want?
The pharmacist will ask you some questions and must be satisfied that there is a need
for the medication and that it is suitable for you. The pharmacist may decide that you
should see your doctor or give other advice without supplying any medicines.
If you have the same problem several times then the pharmacist will refer you back to
your doctor.
Will I be seen straight away?
The pharmacist will see you as soon as possible; you may have to wait if he/she is
dealing with another customer, (this may mean that the pharmacist is in the
dispensary checking a prescription). If the pharmacy is really busy the pharmacist may
ask you to come back. If this happens you can still go and see your doctor if you feel
your problem is urgent.
You may also have to wait for your medicines, as the pharmacy staff will
dispense items in the order that patients have been seen in.
If I use the scheme does this stop me seeing the doctor?
No. Using the scheme does not prevent you from seeing your doctor, but using it for
minor ailments can give the doctor more time to deal with patients with more
serious illnesses.
You must not register for Care at the Chemist with more than one pharmacy.
You should use the same pharmacy each time you need medication, and you must
take your registration card with you every time to show that you have registered with
the scheme, so that a record of your treatment can be made. If your regular pharmacy is closed you may use another
pharmacy but you must inform the pharmacy staff of which pharmacy you usually use.