On International Self-Care Day, we’re pleased to announce that PAGB, the consumer healthcare association, has today released a new report shining a light on the trends in self-treatable conditions, consumers’ attitudes towards self-care and how they access health services.
Our 2024 Self-Care Census Report shares real-world data from our census of 4,000 adults in the UK, putting this into context in the current state of primary care services, and aiming to highlight the challenges and opportunities for self-care and the next steps that can be taken in policy and practice to promote self-care.
The report reveals the most experienced self-treatable conditions in the year include:
- Colds 52%
- Headache 47%
- Coughs 45%
- Blocked nose 44%
- Backache 41%
The research shows that the number of GP appointments for self-treatable conditions resulting in advice to use over-the-counter (OTC) medicines is rising, climbing 17 percentage points from last year to 75% this year. Consumers have also demonstrated a widespread trust in OTC medicines, with 89% of adults surveyed in the census confirming they are confident using OTC products to manage their symptoms.
However, the report highlights there’s still more to be done to promote self-care, with confidence in self-care amongst younger adults appearing low. 23% of those aged 25 to 34, admitted they would try to get a GP appointment for a self-treatable condition rather than self-care or visit a pharmacist, compared to just 9% of those aged 65 or older.
Consumers are also keen to see improved access to prescription medicines with 74% wanting to see more medicines switched from prescription-only so they can be provided by a pharmacist — a policy which has been championed by PAGB.
Michelle Riddalls, CEO at PAGB, shares:
“Self-care doesn’t just make good sense, it’s integral to building a sustainable healthcare system for the future. The evidence from this survey showcases the support people want to see in place for self-care and, working with the new government, policymakers and regulators, we need to ensure self-care is prioritised. Now is the time to capitalise on the very real opportunities in reach to realise its full potential and benefits.”
Read the full report here.
