Pharmacy First is an NHS service in England that allows patients to receive treatment for certain common conditions directly from a pharmacist without needing to see a GP first.
The service aims to make it easier for patients to access care quickly while helping reduce pressure on GP practices and urgent care services.
Under the Pharmacy First scheme, trained pharmacists can assess symptoms and provide treatment for several minor illnesses.
What is the Pharmacy First service
The Pharmacy First service allows community pharmacists to provide clinical advice and treatment for some common health conditions.
Patients can visit a participating pharmacy and speak directly with a pharmacist.
If appropriate, the pharmacist may recommend treatment or supply certain medicines.
In some cases, patients may be referred to another healthcare service if further care is needed.
Source: NHS England Pharmacy First guidance.
What conditions can Pharmacy First treat
Pharmacy First currently allows pharmacists in England to provide treatment for several common conditions.
| Condition | Typical symptoms |
|---|---|
| Sinusitis | Facial pain, blocked nose |
| Sore throat | Pain when swallowing |
| Earache | Ear pain, especially in children |
| Infected insect bites | Redness, swelling |
| Impetigo | Skin infection with sores |
| Shingles | Painful rash |
| Uncomplicated UTIs | Pain or burning when urinating |
Pharmacists may also be able to help with other minor skin conditions. Eligibility criteria may vary depending on the condition.
Source: NHS England Pharmacy First service information.
Who can use Pharmacy First
Pharmacy First is available to many patients registered with an NHS GP practice in England.
Patients may access the service by:
- visiting a participating pharmacy directly
- being referred by NHS 111
- being referred by a GP practice
Not every pharmacy offers the service, so availability may vary by location.
What happens during a Pharmacy First consultation
During a Pharmacy First consultation, the pharmacist will assess your symptoms and medical history.
Pharmacy First Process
Depending on the outcome, the pharmacist may:
- recommend over-the-counter treatment
- supply certain prescription medicines under the scheme
- refer you to a GP or another healthcare service
Is Pharmacy First free
The consultation under the Pharmacy First service is free for NHS patients.
However, if medication is supplied, normal NHS prescription charges may apply unless the patient qualifies for free prescriptions.
When should you use Pharmacy First
Pharmacy First can be helpful when you need quick advice or treatment for minor illnesses. Examples include:
- sore throat
- mild infections
- insect bites
- earache in children
Pharmacies often offer extended opening hours, which can make access easier than waiting for a GP appointment.
When should you see a GP instead
Although pharmacists can treat many minor conditions, some situations require a GP consultation. You should contact your GP if:
- symptoms are severe or persistent
- you have complex medical conditions
- you require specialist treatment
Pharmacists will advise if further medical care is needed. If you need to manage ongoing medication, see our guide on how repeat prescriptions work.
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Sources
This article summarises publicly available information from: