Have you heard about the Pharmacy First scheme?
Launched by NHS England on 31 January 2024, it's all about providing quick and easy care while taking the pressure off GP services. Now, patients can get treatment for seven common conditions straight from their local pharmacy, no GP referral or prescription necessary. Conditions covered include sinusitis, sore throat, earache, infected insect bite, impetigo, shingles, and uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women.
The pharmacist will dispense antibiotics when needed. Just mention at your local pharmacy that you would like to be seen under the pharmacy first scheme. There are some exception criteria for the scheme. Please check eligibility from the attached document
Other additional minor illness conditions which you could consult the pharmacist are very broad and helpful. The pharmacist can usually dispense certain medications for these conditions too when applicable. These are listed on the Pharmacy First Scheme guide (PDF, 227KB).
Did you know that community pharmacies can offer treatment for seven common conditions without you needing to see a GP? Pharmacists can now assess and provide you with medications to treat your:
- earache (aged 1 to 17 years)
- impetigo (aged 1 year and over)
- infected insect bites (aged 1 year and over)
- shingles (aged 18 years and over)
- sinusitis (aged 12 years and over)
- sore throat (aged 5 years and over)
- urinary tract infections or UTIs (women aged 16 to 64 years)
Available on the high-street, your community pharmacists have the skills and training to treat you for these conditions. You don’t need to make an appointment and private consultations are often available in the pharmacy.
Community pharmacists will direct you to other local services if they think you need to see someone else.
So don't wait for minor health concerns to get worse – think pharmacy first and be seen by your local pharmacy team.
For more information, www.nhs.uk/thinkpharmacyfirst