Healthcare doesn’t always have to mean a trip to the GP. Thanks to the Pharmacy First service, you can now get fast, convenient treatment for common conditions directly from your local pharmacy — without needing an appointment.
Here’s everything you need to know about how Pharmacy First works and why it could save you time and effort.
What is the Pharmacy First Service?
Pharmacy First is an NHS service that allows trained pharmacists to offer clinical advice and treatment for certain minor conditions. It’s designed to make healthcare more accessible while reducing pressure on GP practices.
Pharmacists are highly trained healthcare professionals, and many can now provide treatment options — including some prescription medicines — for common illnesses.
Conditions Covered by Pharmacy First
The service covers a range of everyday health problems. These may include:
- Ear infections
- Sore throats
- Sinusitis
- Impetigo (skin infection)
- Infected insect bites
- Shingles
- Uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) in women
(Exact conditions may vary depending on local NHS guidelines.)
How Does the Service Work?
Using Pharmacy First is simple and straightforward:
- Visit your local pharmacy – no appointment is needed.
- Discuss your symptoms with the pharmacist in a private consultation room.
- Get clinical advice – the pharmacist will assess your condition.
- Receive treatment – this could be over-the-counter medicine, a prescription-only treatment, or advice on when to see a GP.
Benefits of Pharmacy First
- Faster access to care – no need to wait for a GP appointment
- Convenient locations – most people live within walking distance of a pharmacy
- Expert advice – pharmacists are trained to recognise when further care is needed
- Reduced pressure on GPs and A&E – freeing up time for more serious cases
Who Can Use the Service?
Pharmacy First is available to anyone registered with a GP in England. You may need to show proof of identity, and the pharmacist will keep a secure record of your consultation, just like a GP would.
Final Thoughts
The Pharmacy First service is transforming how we access everyday healthcare. By offering professional advice and treatment directly through local pharmacies, it makes getting help faster, easier, and more convenient.
Next time you have a minor illness, consider visiting your pharmacist first — it could save you a trip to the GP and get you back on your feet sooner.
