Pharmacy England: Your First Stop for Better Health
Take your health into your own hands and discover the benefits of choosing Pharmacy England as your first stop for common ailments.
Choose Convenience...
We know your time is precious, so why spend it sitting in a GP's waiting room? If you’re suffering from the stuffiness of sinusitis, the irritation of earache, the itching of insect bites, or other minor health concerns, it’s time to visit your pharmacy first.
...Choose Pharmacy
At your local pharmacy, you'll find a welcoming environment where expert pharmacists are ready to lend a helping hand. They will take the time to understand your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatments, offering a range of over-the-counter medicines for quick relief without a prescription, as well as offering self-care advice to alleviate your discomfort.
What your pharmacy can help you with
Lighten the Load, Help Others in Need
By choosing to visit your local pharmacy for common ailments, you're doing more than just looking out for yourself – you're also supporting your community. By taking advantage of your pharmacy's knowledge and accessibility, you're freeing up valuable GP appointments for those with more pressing health concerns. You'll be making a difference to those who truly need urgent medical attention, all while receiving the prompt care you deserve.
Don't wait another minute! Trust in the expertise and convenience that pharmacies all over England can provide. Wave goodbye to waiting rooms and say hello to personalised care, quick relief, and professional advice, right in your community. Take control of your health journey today!
How does it work?
Step 1
Click "Book an appointment" and select a common ailment
Step 2
Book a date and time at your chosen pharmacy.
Step 3
Attend your appointment
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pharmacy First England?
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Pharmacy First is a scheme launched by the NHS to establish community pharmacies as the first port of call for the public, allowing your local pharmacist to perform more advanced services for seven common conditions.
- Insect Bites
- Impetigo
- Shingles
- Uncomplicated UTIs in women
- Earache
- Sinusitis
- Sore throat
With Pharmacy First, you can now get a prescription from your pharmacy, without seeing a doctor first.
As well as allowing you easier access to the healthcare you deserve, the scheme also offloads the workload and strain of GPs.
Who is eligible for NHS Pharmacy First England?
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You can receive advice and treatment for the health conditions listed above at pharmacies across England if you live in England and are registered with a GP practice in England.
- Earache - 1 to 17 years
- Impetigo - 1 year and over
- Insect bites - 1 year and over
- Shingles - 18 years and over
- Sinusitis - 12 years and over
- Sore Throat - 5 years and over
- Uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women - Women 16-64 years
Who isn’t eligible for NHS Pharmacy First England?
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Visitors to England are might be excluded from accessing this service, but are always welcome to visit their pharmacy for general help, advice, and access to over-the-counter medication.
For ineligibility for specific common ailments, see below:
- UTI: Pregnant women, patients with a urinary catheter, patients who have suffered from recurrent UTI (2 episodes in last 6 months, or 3 episodes in last 12 months)
- Shingles: Pregnant individuals
- Impetigo: Patients suffering from bullous impetigo or recurrent impetigo (defined as 2 or more episodes in the same year)
- Sinusitis: Immunosuppressed individuals, patients suffering from chronic sinusitis (sinusitis that causes symptoms that last for more than 12 weeks)
- Otitis media (earache): Patients suffering with recurrent acute otitis media (3 or more episodes in 6 months or four or more episodes in 12 months)
When should I visit my GP?
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There are times when your pharmacist will recommend that you see your GP for further help. If something feels very wrong, then you should either call 111 or 999. Learn more in the articles for each health condition.
How do I book an appointment?
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To book an appointment, simply click "Book now" at the top of the page, select your local pharmacy and a time that suits you.
What if my pharmacist is too busy to see me?
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At your local pharmacy, you have the option to either walk in or book an appointment online. By booking an appointment, you can ensure that your pharmacist has dedicated time for you to listen and provide tailored advice and recommended treatment.
Is my pharmacist qualified?
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Pharmacists are qualified to provide advice, carry out the necessary treatment, and prescribe medication when necessary. If you require further advice and more treatment, then your pharmacist will point you in the direction of your GP.
Can I still see my GP?
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Pharmacy First was created as a convenient alternative to seeing your GP for common ailments to save time and give you more access to the health services you need. GPs are still able to see you regarding any of your concerns but waiting times may be longer.
Will I need to pay extra if prescription medication is required?
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If prescription medication is required, charges will work the same way as when prescribed by your GP. If prescription medication is not necessary, patients may be advised to manage with self-care or to purchase over-the-counter medications.