Today, we’re diving into a major change in how you can get quick and effective healthcare: the NHS Pharmacy First service. This new initiative is a game-changer, making your local pharmacy the first port of call for a range of common ailments, saving you time and giving you faster access to professional help.
What is the Pharmacy First Service?
Launched by the NHS, Pharmacy First allows pharmacists in England to provide advice, treatment, and even prescription-only medicines for six specific conditions, without you needing to see a GP. This service is designed to free up millions of GP appointments for more complex issues, while also giving you a convenient way to get the care you need, often on the same day.
The Seven Conditions: What Can Your Pharmacist Treat?
Under the Pharmacy First service, your pharmacist can now assess and treat the following conditions for patients who meet specific criteria (like age and gender):
- Sinusitis (for patients aged 12 years and over)
- Sore throat (aged 5+)
- Infected insect bite (aged 1 year+)
- Impetigo (aged 1 year+)
- Shingles (aged 18+)
- Uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) (for women aged 16 to 64)
These new clinical pathways mean pharmacists can now prescribe and supply antibiotics or antivirals where clinically appropriate, giving you faster access to the right treatment.
How Does it Work?
Accessing the service is simple and straightforward. You can use it in one of two ways:
- GP Referral: Your GP practice might refer you to a pharmacy if you call them with one of the seven conditions.
- NHS 111 Referral: The NHS 111 helpline (online or by phone) can also direct you to a pharmacy for a consultation.
During your consultation, the pharmacist will speak with you in a private video call. They will assess your symptoms and, with your consent, may access your medical records. After their assessment, they’ll either provide you with self-care advice, recommend an over-the-counter medication, or, if appropriate, issue a prescription for a prescription-only medicine.
Benefits for You
- Convenience: You can get expert advice and treatment quickly, without waiting for a GP appointment. Many pharmacies offer the service during their opening hours, including weekends.
- Expertise: Pharmacists are highly trained healthcare professionals. They have the knowledge and skills to provide safe and effective care for a wide range of minor illnesses.
- Free Consultations: The consultation with the pharmacist is free of charge. Standard NHS prescription charges will apply to any medicines you are supplied, unless you are exempt.
How Can Pharmacy Advance Help?
As a leading online pharmacy, Pharmacy Advance is committed to providing convenient and professional healthcare services. We can help you manage your health journey in several ways, from providing expert pharmacist advice to offering a range of medicines for common ailments. Our services complement the new Pharmacy First scheme by making it easier than ever to get the care and medication you need.
- Online Prescriptions: If you are prescribed a medicine through the Pharmacy First service, you can use our secure online service to order it and have it delivered directly to your door. Learn more about our online Pharmacy First service.
- Expert Advice: Our team of pharmacists is always ready to offer professional, confidential advice on a wide range of health concerns. You can contact us for guidance on managing your conditions or using your medicines correctly.
- Over-the-Counter Products: For many minor health issues, an over-the-counter remedy is all you need. Browse our extensive range of products, from hay fever treatments to cold and flu remedies, by visiting our Pharmacy Advance shop.
This service marks a significant step forward in making healthcare more accessible. By understanding what your pharmacist can do, you can get the right care at the right time.
