The idea
A database for prescriptions that could relieve the strain on local GP's
Why is it important?
I have to visit my local doctor every 3 months (sometimes more) to renew a prescription that I will be on for the rest of my life. I have to a waste a full 25 minute appointment and their time on something that should be rather simple. A database, that can be accessed by GP's and local pharmacists where continued prescriptions can be noted, and marked when distributed. It is a safe way to monitor substance abuse and keep tabs on over distributing on medication. It also relieves local GP's of appointments that aren't necessary and keeps them available to people who really need them.
I also completely agree on distribution on pharmaceuticals. I think it would take a strain off the NHS if pharmacist had distribution rights for prescriptions (within reason), so that less people would have to go to the doctors for things that could easily be resolved with a trip to your local pharmacist. By this I mean I have had a long term prescription that has a regular date limit on. I have to waste a doctors time ever three months for them to simply give me a piece of paper with a prescription on. I will be on this drug for the rest of my life. It would be much easier if this information was accessible to a pharmacist who could distribute to me. It would also i'm sure take some strain off the GP's.