NHS Wales contractors in community pharmacy, optometry and dentistry are taking part in a new Welsh Government initiative to highlight the importance of NHS primary care services.

As part of the initiative, vinyl stickers are on display in pharmacy, optometrist and dental practice windows across Wales, promoting the role of independent contractors within the NHS and encouraging the public to use them as a first point of care.

Speaking at Pritchard Pharmacy in Denbighshire, Vaughan Gething AM said: “Our pharmacies, optometry practices and dental practices provide convenient health services for people in their own communities. Along with GPs, they are a person’s first, and often their most frequent, point of contact with a healthcare professional.”

Russell Goodway, chief executive of Community Pharmacy Wales said: “We warmly welcome this recognition by the Welsh Government of the important role of primary care NHS services, including community pharmacy. This official NHS branding will also give community pharmacies, and our primary care partners, important credibility and so give patients confidence to use these services.

"We are also delighted to join with our healthcare colleagues in Optometry Wales to mark this recognition. Between us we represent over 1000 NHS outlets across Wales."