We understand that you may want to see the GP for your medical concerns; however, the GP will signpost you to the appropriate clinically trained individual which may be the pharmacist. A new service called Pharmacy First which was issued by NHS England in January 2024, which enables community pharmacies to supply prescription medicines for 7 common conditions without a GP appointment. These common conditions include:
- Acute otitis media (ear infection) – ages between 1 and 17 years old
- Impetigo – 1 years old and over
- Infected insect bites – 1 years old and over
- Shingles – 18 years old and over
- Sinusitis – 12 years old and over
- Sore throat – 5 years old and over
- Uncomplicated Urinary Tract Infections – Women over the age of 16 – 64 years of age
Pharmacists will follow a robust clinical pathway which includes safety netting and self-care advice, and only if appropriate, supplying a restricted set of prescription only medicines without the need to visit a GP.
Pharmacies have private consultation rooms that can be used for consultations with patients, and pharmacists can see patients for clinical services without always needing an appointment.
This new service is expected to free up GP appointments for patients who need them most and will give people quicker and more convenient access to safe and high quality healthcare. It includes the supply of appropriate medicines for 7 common conditions including earache, sore throat, and urinary tract infections, aiming to address health issues before they get worse.
This service is aimed to help those who do not require a GP appointment on the day and will help free up GP appointments for patients who need them most and will give people quicker and more convenient access to a safe and high-quality healthcare.
Lanuauges: