Struggling to get a GP appointment? The NHS Pharmacy First service means you can walk into your local pharmacy and receive clinical treatment for seven common conditions — no appointment needed, completely free on the NHS.
What Is Pharmacy First?
Launched across England, Pharmacy First allows community pharmacists to assess, advise, and where appropriate prescribe NHS medicines for minor illnesses. This takes pressure off GP surgeries and gives you faster access to care.
The 7 Conditions Covered
Under Pharmacy First, your pharmacist can treat the following conditions:
- Sinusitis — Blocked nose, facial pain and pressure lasting more than 10 days. Your pharmacist can assess severity and provide appropriate treatment including nasal sprays or, if needed, antibiotics.
- Sore throat — Painful swallowing, swollen tonsils and general discomfort. Using clinical scoring tools, your pharmacist can determine if antibiotics are needed or recommend effective over-the-counter relief.
- Earache — Pain in one or both ears, often following a cold. Your pharmacist can examine the ear, recommend pain relief, and prescribe ear drops if an infection is present.
- Infected insect bites — Red, swollen, warm bites that are getting worse. If signs of infection are present, your pharmacist can prescribe a course of antibiotics.
- Impetigo — Crusty, golden-coloured sores typically around the nose and mouth. Your pharmacist can prescribe topical or oral antibiotics depending on severity.
- Shingles — Painful, blistering rash on one side of the body. Early treatment with antivirals is important, and your pharmacist can prescribe these within 72 hours of rash onset.
- Uncomplicated UTIs in women — Burning sensation when urinating, frequent need to go, and lower abdominal discomfort. Your pharmacist can prescribe a short course of antibiotics for women aged 16-64.
How Does It Work?
- Walk in — No appointment needed. Simply visit your local pharmacy during opening hours.
- Private consultation — Your pharmacist will assess your symptoms in a private consultation room.
- Treatment — You will receive advice, over-the-counter medicines, or an NHS prescription if clinically appropriate.
- Referral if needed — If your condition requires GP or hospital care, your pharmacist will refer you directly.
Why Use Pharmacy First?
There are several compelling reasons to try your pharmacy before your GP surgery:
- No waiting — Most consultations happen within minutes, not weeks
- Free on the NHS — No charges for the consultation or any prescribed medicines (with valid exemption)
- Convenient hours — Many pharmacies are open evenings and weekends
- Expert care — Pharmacists are highly trained clinical professionals
- Frees up GP time — Helps your GP focus on more complex conditions
Visit Us Today
At Heaton Road Pharmacy, our trained pharmacists are ready to help with all seven Pharmacy First conditions. Walk in during our opening hours — no appointment necessary. If you are unsure whether your condition is covered, give us a call and we will be happy to advise.
