I know that I’ve mentioned the NHS Minor Ailments Scheme briefly in the past but over the last week or so I’ve seen lots of people on social media talking about it and sharing posts relating to it. Almost every single time it’s shared, someone comments to say they’ve never heard of it and how they want to find out more so I thought it would be worth revisiting it again today.
What is the Minor Ailments Scheme
Basically, the Minor Ailment Scheme is an NHS service for people who don’t pay prescription charges which would include all children and people on certain benefits and with specific medical conditions.
The scheme was set up to allow easier access to the same advice, treatment and medicines from your pharmacist as you would get from your GP, without having to wait for a doctors appointment (which can be a godsend here as we really struggle to get in to see ours).
What can be treated under the Minor Ailments Scheme
Examples of ailments that are often treated under the scheme are:
- Aches, sprains and pains.
- Colds.
- Constipation.
- Coughs.
- Constipation.
- Diarrhoea.
- Earache.
- Haemorrhoids.
- Hay fever.
- Headaches.
- Fever.
- Headlice.
- Heartburn.
- Indigestion.
- Insect bites and stings.
- Mild eczema and dermatitis.
- Mouth Ulcers.
- Nappy Rash.
- Teething.
- Mouth Ulcers.
- Sore throat
- Thrush.
- Teething.
How to Register for the Minor Ailments Scheme
As far as I can see, registration for the scheme differs from area to area but I’d say that the best place to start would either be your doctors surgery or your local chemists. Give them a call or pop in next time you’re passing.
As a matter of interest, I’ve seen a lot of people saying that people are taking advantage if they use the Minor Ailments Scheme as it will cost the NHS a lot of money to fund. I’ve seen some quite negative comments around it to be honest but surely it’s only a good thing as it reduced people wanting to see their doctor which will in turn cut costs there surely!
Regardless of whether people like the Minor Ailments Scheme, it’s there and can be used to save money on medication for both you and your children.
What about you – do you think it’s a good thing, and more importantly, would you use it?
Don’t miss out on future posts like this – receive updates directly to your inbox by email by adding your email address to the box on the top right of this page and hitting subscribe. You can also follow me on BlogLovin or Networked Blogs and I’d love to see you over on my Facebook page and on Instagram.
