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Pharmacies should open around the clock with staff prescribing drugs, according to the Scottish Tories.

The proposals, published yesterday, aim to build on SNPGovernment plans and relieve pressure on over-worked GPs.

Doctors group the BMA welcomed the suggestion.

Tory health spokesman Miles Briggs said a “crisis” has developed in GP services.

He said: “Pharmacies are in an ideal position to help, and that’s why we want to see them become a key partner in primary health care.

“By exploring the introduction of extended hours for pharmacies, including in 24-hour supermarkets, we can help provide immediate help around the clock. This would not only take pressure off our GPs but also provide better patient care.”

In May, the Royal College of General Practitioners Scotland released details of a survey which said 22 per cent of GPs struggle to cope due to stress at least once a week.

A spokesman for Health Secretary Jeane Freeman said: “We are pleased to have support from the Scottish Conservatives for our approach.

Pharmacists with advanced clinical skills are being integrated into GP practices and by 2021, all GP practices will have access to this service.”

Deputy Chair of BMA Scotland’s GP Committee Dr Andrew Buist said: “Pharmacists can play a hugely important role in reducing the severe workload pressures facing general practice.

“This will see pharmacists and pharmacy technicians recruited with responsibility to deal with acute and repeat prescribing and autonomously provide medication and polypharmacy reviews, freeing up GP time to allow us to focus on delivering the care to patients that only a GP can provide.”