Did you know that your local pharmacy can now assess and treat a range of common conditions without the need for a GP appointment?
The NHS Pharmacy First service allows trained pharmacists to provide expert advice, treatment and, where appropriate, prescription medication for many common illnesses. This means you can often receive the care you need more quickly while helping to keep GP appointments available for patients with more complex medical needs.
Conditions Treated Through Pharmacy First
Your pharmacist can assess and treat:
- Sinusitis (aged 12 years and over)
- Sore throat (aged 5 years and over)
- Earache (children aged 1–17 years)
- Infected insect bites (aged 1 year and over)
- Impetigo
- Shingles (aged 18 years and over)
- Uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) in women aged 16–64 years
If appropriate, the pharmacist can supply treatment (including antibiotics) without you needing to see your GP.
NHS Contraception Service
Many community pharmacies also provide a free NHS contraception service, making it easier than ever to access contraception without a GP appointment.
Depending on the pharmacy, services may include:
- Starting the contraceptive pill for the first time.
- Ongoing supplies of the contraceptive pill.
- Advice on choosing the most suitable method of contraception.
- Information about sexual health and signposting to other services where needed.
Why Choose Pharmacy First?
✔ Faster access to treatment
✔ No need to wait for a GP appointment for many common conditions
✔ Convenient evening and weekend opening at many pharmacies
✔ Expert advice from highly trained NHS pharmacists
✔ Helps keep GP appointments available for patients who need specialist medical care
If the pharmacist feels you need further assessment, they will advise you or refer you to the most appropriate healthcare service.
Before contacting the practice, we encourage you to consider whether your local pharmacy can help. It could save you time and ensure you receive treatment sooner.