An issue of confidence

HIGH street pharmacists are a vital element in the new front line of the public health care system. Along with the growing number of group practice nurses, physiotherapists, and even NHS 24 helplines, they help take the strain of routine queries and minor diagnoses from the shoulders of overworked GPs. The professional chemist can now assess and medicate, deal with repeat prescriptions and remove some of the frustration for patients created by the necessity in most doctors' surgeries of waiting for appointments on crowded schedules. They also play a key role in providing medical cover on public holidays and at weekends. Many are employed by large chains which ensure the maintenance of high professional standards and common working practices. A considerable number of Scotland's 1200 pharmacies are, however, one-man or -woman operations or part of smaller groups. Though equally qualified and experienced, their businesses may depend more on unskilled labour for the routine of day-to-day shop service. Thereby hangs the potential rub.