The new Pharmacy First scheme means you can see a pharmacist about several minor illnesses and conditions you would previously have had to see your GP about. You can visit your pharmacist for a consultation and they will treat you and prescribe medication if necessary. If your condition is more serious you will be referred to a GP or hospital.
Under Pharmacy First Scheme, pharmacists can treat and prescribe medication for seven conditions. These are the conditions, and at what age, you can see the pharmacist:
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- Earache - 1 to 17 years
- Impetigo - 1 year and over
- Infected 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 - women 16-64 years
Should you contact the Surgery about one of these conditions you may be referred to a local chemist. Normally the chemist will contact you to discuss and issue any appropriate medication.
In addition, from October 2025, the morning-after pill is now available free of charge from nearly 10,000 community pharmacies across England. No GP appointment or prescription is needed.
What’s Changed?
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- Free access at pharmacies: Women can walk into participating high street pharmacies and request emergency contraception after a brief, confidential consultation with a pharmacist.
- No appointment required: This removes delays and cost barriers—previously, the pill could cost up to £30 or require a GP or clinic visit.
Part of NHS expansion: - This is part of the NHS’s 10-Year Health Plan to shift more care into communities and reduce pressure on GPs.
For more information go to the NHS Website How Pharmacies Can Help
To find a local pharmacy to the the NHS Webste Find a Pharmacy