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Younger people use A&E to access health advice more than older age groups, reveals research commissioned by PAGB ahead of today's Self Care Conference. 

While 18-24 years are more likely than other age groups to use Google and NHS Choices to search for health information, they claim to be the most regular users of A&E (42 per cent) compared to people in the 55 years and older age group (20 per cent).

Pharmacy, on the other hand, is comparatively underutilised, with 52 per cent of younger people using a pharmacy for health information and advice compared to 65 per cent of people 55 years and older. This is despite 99 per cent of the population being able to get to a pharmacy within 20 minutes by car and 96 per cent by walking or using public transport.

This research suggests, says the PAGB, that younger people need more information and support on how to use NHS services appropriately.

Self Care Week (16 to 22 November) aims to do just that by highlighting how people can better look after their own physical health and mental wellbeing and the steps that can be taken to help prevent avoidable conditions. In addition, PAGB is again sponsoring today's Self Care Forum's Annual Self Care Conference to provide healthcare professionals with practical solutions to help people self care and avoid trips to the GP or A&E.

John Smith, PAGB chief executive, said: €The pharmacy is the most accessible place to go for professional healthcare advice for a wide variety of health complaints. To encourage people to self care, pharmacies need to work closely with their local community to provide the services that best meet people's needs; changing from the traditional pharmacy focus of prescriptions and retailing to one of wellness, education and prevention.€