A new opinion survey has shown strong support for the Common Conditions Service (CCS). The nationally representative survey of 1,000 people, undertaken by Amárach Research and commissioned by Azure Pharmaceuticals, examined public awareness and attitudes toward the CCS, which was introduced earlier this year. The poll found that 84 per cent of respondents would consider using the Service instead of visiting a GP for eligible conditions, with cost savings (31 per cent) and faster access to care (17 per cent) among the main reasons cited.The poll also found that:

• 60 per cent of people are aware the service exists;
• 75 per cent said they would consider using the service in future for a common health condition after learning about it;
• Just 4 per cent say they would be unlikely to use it; and
• 67 per cent believe €30–40 represents good value for pharmacist-led diagnosis and treatment, including prescription medicines where appropriate.

Commenting on the findings, Sandra Gannon, Managing Director of Azure Pharmaceuticals, said: “These findings indicate a debate shifting from whether pharmacists can do more to how far their role will expand and how quickly the system can adapt . . . Convenience matters, but trust appears to sustain repeat use and confidence in the model.”