Patients can now get treatment for seven common conditions directly from their local pharmacy without a GP appointment or prescription. This is known as Pharmacy First.
Pharmacy First enables community pharmacists to supply prescription-only medicines, including antibiotics and antivirals where clinically appropriate, to treat seven common health conditions without the need to visit a GP.
What are the seven common conditions?
- Sinusitis
- Sore throat
- Earache
- Infected insect bite
- Impetigo (a bacterial skin infection)
- Shingles
- Uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women
You can get treatment for these conditions quickly and easily. You can walk into your local pharmacy or contact them virtually.
Find a pharmacy (nhs.uk)
Many pharmacies are open until late and at weekends. You do not need an appointment.
Most pharmacies have a private consultation room where you can discuss issues with pharmacy staff without being overheard.
GP receptionists, NHS 111, and emergency care providers can also direct patients to local pharmacies that offer the service.
Don’t worry–a pharmacist will always refer you to your GP, a nurse or a specialist if further care is needed.
