Local pharmacist believes gap to GP's is "narrowing"

However, he says in-store professionals wont replace a doctor

A local pharmacist says the gap between high-street professionals and GPs is narrowing.

Nick Kaye, from Kingsley Muti, says pharmacists are now routinely offering services - including prescriptions for antibiotics and pain relief - that fall within their "clinical competence."

The shift is set to accelerate this year, as pharmacy graduates will now qualify as independent prescribers immediately upon entering the field, removing previous requirements for additional master's-level qualifications.

However, speaking on Manx Radio's Mannin Line earlier today, Mr Kaye says a pharmacist is not a replacement for a GP:

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Nick also says there is 'a shortage of pharmacists everywhere, and the Isle of Man is one of those places'.

But he says the Island needs to show it is a 'good place to be' for new professionals: