Pharmacists in Guernsey are being allowed to dispense alternative medicines without going back to the doctor to have the prescription changed first.

It's because of the shortage of antibiotics caused by the rise in Strep A cases in the UK.

The bailiwick's Chief Pharmacist has enacted 'Serious Shortage Protocols'.

That means relaxing the rules slightly so pharmacists can legally issue a specified alternative medicine if necessary.

Bev Hall hopes it saves time and inconvenience for patients who need medication.

But she says pharmacists use their clinical judgement in each individual case.

"An SSP gives Pharmacists tools to supply medication in a different way to ease pressure on prescribers and to support patients.

However, it should be noted that Pharmacists use their clinical judgement in each individual case and may, in some instances, decide not to take advantage of an SSP and refer back to the prescribing doctor."

The decision to introduce SSPs for antibiotic medication is support by the Health and Social Care Committee.