The Pharmacy First service enables members of the public to visit pharmacies, as a first port of call, for help with a range of common minor conditions. You can walk into the pharmacy and be offered a consultation which may be quicker than waiting to see your GP. The service enables pharmacists to offer advice to patients and supply NHS medicines (including antibiotics), where clinically appropriate, for:
1. Sinusitis – for children and adults aged 12 years and over;
2. Sore throat – for children and adults aged 5 years and over;
3. Earache (Acute otitis media) – for children aged 1 to 17 years;
4. Infected insect bite – for children and adults aged 1 year and over;
5. Impetigo – for children and adults aged 1 year and over;
6. Shingles – for adults aged 18 years and over; and
7. Uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women aged 16 to 64 years.
There are many other conditions such as diarrhoea, thrush, coughs and nappy rash where a pharmacist can help, follow this link for more information.
Local pharmacies also offer free blood pressure checks and contraceptive services. To find a pharmacy that offers free blood pressure checks click here. To find a pharmacy that offers the contraceptive pill without a prescription click here
