The signatories said improved self care could enhance patient experiences and outcomes, save the NHS £2 billion a year and make more effective use of clinicians' time.
'With the current financial pressures on the NHS, it has never been more important to be able to identify cash savings,' they wrote.
The letter asks Mr Lansley to meet with those involved with the Self Care Campaign, a group promoting a change in people's behaviour around the management of minor ailments.
In March, GP revealed research by the group had found that improved public education about self care could save each practice in England £250,000 a year (GP, 18 March).
GPs who signed the letter included former GPC chairman Dr John Chisholm, NHS Alliance chairman Dr Michael Dixon, former BMA deputy chairman Dr Sam Everington, former RCGP president Professor David Haslam, and RCGP women's health spokeswoman Dr Sarah Jarvis.
