The PAGB’s recently published 2024 self-care census report reveals some compelling insights into how people in the UK are managing their health. With a clear shift towards self-treatment and a growing reliance on digital health resources, the findings highlight the evolving landscape of healthcare. Let’s delve into the key findings and their implications for individuals, healthcare providers, and the broader healthcare system.
Increased Reliance on OTC Medicines
One of the standout revelations is that 75% of GP appointments for self-treatable conditions resulted in advice to use over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, a significant increase of 17 percentage points from the previous year. This suggests a growing recognition among healthcare professionals of the efficacy of OTC solutions for minor ailments, potentially easing the burden on GPs and enhancing patient autonomy.
Digital Health Resources in Demand
The report also highlights that 70% of respondents had used the NHS website or app to search for healthcare information. This reliance on digital resources underscores the need for accurate, accessible online health information. As the digital age progresses, it’s crucial for healthcare providers and brands to ensure their online content is reliable and user-friendly.
The Cost of Self-Treatable Illnesses
Every year, at least 25 million GP appointments and 5 million A&E appointments are used for self-treatable illnesses. This staggering number points to a significant area where the healthcare system can save resources. Encouraging self-care and the use of OTC medicines for minor conditions could potentially free up valuable NHS time and reduce waiting times for more serious conditions.
OTC Medicine Usage and Pharmacist Consultations
The report finds that 72% of adults had taken OTC medicines up to 10 times in the last year, indicating widespread acceptance and usage of these treatments. Additionally, 32% of adults have been directed to consult with a pharmacist by a GP or NHS 111 about a self-treatable condition. This shift towards pharmacist consultations can help reduce GP workloads and provide quicker, more accessible advice for patients.
Financial Implications for the NHS
For every 5% of total NHS prescribing and spending that could be switched to OTC medicines, the NHS could save £1.4 billion. This potential saving is significant, highlighting the economic benefits of promoting self-care and the use of OTC treatments. It presents a compelling case for policy changes that encourage this shift.
Access to GP Appointments
A notable 36% of people who sought GP advice and treatment for a self-treatable condition found it hard to get an appointment. This difficulty underscores the importance of educating the public about self-care options and ensuring they have the resources needed to manage minor health issues independently.
Trust in Health Information
Trust in health information from OTC brand websites is high, with 73% of adults surveyed agreeing they would trust such information. This trust places a responsibility on brands to provide accurate, clear, and helpful content. Furthermore, with 43% of 18-24 year olds trusting health information shared on social media, it is crucial for brands to maintain a strong, factual presence on these platforms to combat misinformation and guide young adults towards reliable health practices.
Information for Older Adults
Interestingly, 75% of adults aged 65 and over said they have enough information on self-care treatments. This indicates that older adults feel well-equipped to manage their health, possibly due to more frequent interactions with healthcare providers and greater experience with self-care over the years.
The Road Ahead
The PAGB 2024 self-care census report clearly illustrates a trend towards increased self-care and reliance on OTC medicines. For healthcare providers, this means an opportunity to reallocate resources more efficiently and provide more targeted care. For individuals, it highlights the importance of being informed and proactive about health management.
By embracing self-care, leveraging reliable digital resources, and ensuring accurate health information is widely available, we can collectively reduce the strain on the NHS and empower individuals to take control of their health. This report serves as a call to action for everyone involved in the healthcare ecosystem to support and promote effective self-care practices.
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