Think Pharmacy First for common health conditions

News - 6 February 2024

People can now get treatment for seven common health conditions directly from their local pharmacist, without needing a GP appointment.
A pharmacist holding a box of medication in a pharmacy while on the phone with a customer.

The Pharmacy First scheme, which launched on 31 January, aims to make it easier and quicker for patients to access care and treatment on their high street, while easing pressure on GP services.

Under the scheme pharmacists can supply prescription-only medicines to treat seven conditions, where assessment indicates this is appropriate, without patients needing to visit their GP practice. The conditions are:

  • Sinusitis
  • Sore throat
  • Earache
  • Infected insect bite
  • Impetigo (a bacterial skin infection)
  • Shingles
  • Uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women

The service is available direct from pharmacies or by referral from a GP, NHS 111 or other health services.

If prescription medicines are not appropriate, pharmacists will offer advice or ‘over the counter’ medicines, or both. Visit this page for more information about local pharmacy services and to find your nearest pharmacy.

Have you visited a pharmacy for help with any of the above conditions? What do you think about the Pharmacy First scheme? Share your feedback with us by clicking the pink 'Talk to us' button below and completing our online feedback.

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