"Issues with repeat prescriptions"

I have been cared for at the same GP Practice for nearly 20 years.  The GPs and Practice Nurses know me and have looked after my family and I with compassion and respect.  I feel that the team know their patients well and they trust that I understand what I need to manage my own long term conditions.

Since Primary Care Pharmacy became instrumental in managing repeat prescriptions in GP Practices, I have had ongoing issues with getting the type and amount of products I need to treat chronic eczema.  Particularly since being unable to talk to someone face to face, I have spent many hours attempting to resolve the issues.  Acting upon communication from Dermatology seems to be a barrier for the Pharmacist.

It is frustrating to fight for enough of the right treatment to manage my condition effectively, and often I have been in pain whilst it is being sorted out by the Reception team.

More seriously, my request for beclomethasone, a drug which can save lives, was withheld because I was required to see the Practice Nurse for an annual review.  Annual reviews for long term conditions have been difficult for the the Practice team since Covid-19 restrictions began, and the Practice cannot offer a specific appointment time, only a day.  I have been unable to commit to this, as I too work for the NHS and I have meetings and patient clinics scheduled most days.  I have managed my asthma for 31 years and understand my condition and it's treatment.  A recent virus has worsened my asthma symptoms and I did not have the correct treatment.  I did manage to make an appointment with the Practice Nurse, but I have become very unwell in the meantime.  I have missed work, and am unable to speak without coughing. I now have the correct treatment following my appointment.

Whilst I understand the many benefits that having a Primary Care Pharmacist working in the Practice can have for the Practice and their patients, I do not feel that this particular pharmacist has attempted to understand the person behind the prescription, or to see me as anything other than a list of drugs on a screen.  I feel unheard and disempowered.

I have heard similar stories many times from Healthcare Professionals and patients.

I don't think that the values held within Realistic Medicine, House of Care, and NHS Forth Valley's own 6 values have been upheld here.

In this particular instance, I feel that my health has been harmed more than it has been supported. This is upsetting for me, but my greatest concern for others less able to speak up than me.  I felt I need to tell my story in the hope that change may happen and other people may not suffer unnecessary illness and discomfort.