Need help with a minor illness? Try Pharmacy First.
You can now visit your local pharmacy for treatment of common conditions - no need to wait for a GP appointment.
Under the NHS Pharmacy First scheme, your pharmacist can give you expert advice and even supply prescription-only medicines (like antibiotics or antivirals) for certain conditions, including:
- Earache (ages 1–17)
- Sore throat (ages 5+)
- Sinusitis (ages 12+)
- Infected insect bites (ages 1+)
- Impetigo (ages 1+)
- Shingles (ages 18+)
- Urinary tract infections in women (ages 16–64)
The consultation is free, and most pharmacies have private rooms - so you can speak with the pharmacist in confidence. If your symptoms need further attention, they’ll refer you to a GP or another NHS service.
It’s quick, convenient, and helps free up GP appointments for more serious concerns.
Just pop into a participating pharmacy or call ahead to check availability.