Pharmacy First: 7 Conditions Your Pharmacist Can Treat

What is Pharmacy First?

Since January 2024, the NHS Pharmacy First scheme allows community pharmacists to assess and treat seven common conditions without you needing to see a GP. This is a game-changer for getting quick treatment.

The 7 Conditions

1. Sinusitis

Symptoms: facial pain, blocked nose, green/yellow discharge lasting more than 10 days.

2. Sore Throat

Symptoms: pain when swallowing, swollen tonsils, lasting more than a few days.

3. Earache (Acute Otitis Media)

Symptoms: ear pain, especially in children, sometimes with fever.

4. Infected Insect Bites

Symptoms: increasing redness, swelling, warmth, or pus around a bite.

5. Impetigo

Symptoms: red sores or blisters, usually around the nose and mouth, that burst and form golden crusts.

6. Shingles

Symptoms: painful rash, usually on one side of the body, with tingling or burning sensation.

7. Uncomplicated UTIs (Women aged 16-64)

Symptoms: burning when urinating, frequent urination, lower abdominal pain.

How It Works

1. Walk in to any pharmacy displaying the Pharmacy First logo
2. No appointment needed — just ask to speak to the pharmacist
3. Assessment — the pharmacist will assess your condition
4. Treatment — they can provide prescription-strength medications on the NHS
5. Referral — if needed, they'll refer you to a GP

Why Use Pharmacy First?

• No waiting — walk in and be seen
• Free treatment — medications are provided on the NHS
• Expert advice — pharmacists are highly trained healthcare professionals
• Frees up GP time — helping everyone get seen faster

This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.