NHS Pharmacy First
Get expert advice and treatment for seven common conditions straight from our pharmacists, without needing to see a GP. Suitable patients can be assessed and, where appropriate, supplied with medicine including antibiotics.
What is Pharmacy First?
Pharmacy First is an NHS service that lets our pharmacists assess and treat a set of common conditions on the spot. For suitable patients this can include supplying prescription-only medicines, such as antibiotics, without a visit to your GP.
It is a faster route to advice and treatment for everyday health concerns, freeing up GP appointments for those who need them most.
You can visit us directly, or we can receive electronic Pharmacy First referrals from GP surgeries and NHS 111.
What are the 7 Pharmacy First conditions?
The Pharmacy First service treats seven common conditions, covering different age groups. At Procters Pharmacy, we can give NHS-funded care for:
Sore throat
A sore throat (pharyngitis) is an irritation or pain in the throat, often caused by a viral or bacterial infection. It can affect anyone and is one of the most common reasons people seek medical advice.
Available for patients aged 5 years and over.
Ear ache
Earaches, commonly affecting children, typically last about a week. Over 80% of children naturally recover within 2-3 days without antibiotics.
The symptoms often clear up on their own without medication.
Available for children and young people aged 1 to 17 years.
Sinusitis
Acute Sinusitis involves the swelling of the sinuses and is often caused by an infection. This condition is very common and typically resolves by itself within 2 to 3 weeks. However, if it lingers, our Pharmacist can support you with medications to speed up your recovery.
Available for patients aged 12 years and over.
Shingles
Shingles is a painful rash caused by an infection of a nerve underneath the skin with the varicella-zoster virus. It causes a painful, blistering rash which is usually in just one part of the body. Shingles can cause pain and discomfort.
Available for patients aged 18 years and over.
Infected insect bites
Insect bites or stings are not usually serious and will improve in a few days. Sometimes they can become infected or cause a serious allergic reaction.
Bites from some insects can also cause illnesses, such as Lyme disease from ticks, scabies from mites, and malaria from mosquitoes in certain parts of the world.
Please note: Pharmacy First does not cover Lyme disease, scabies or malaria. If your symptoms suggest one of these conditions, our pharmacist can advise you on the appropriate next step.
Available for patients aged 1 year and over.
Impetigo
Impetigo is a highly contagious bacterial skin infection that causes red sores, blisters, and crusty patches. It is most common in children but can also affect adults. The infection spreads through direct contact and is often seen around the nose, mouth, hands, and arms.
Available for patients aged 1 year and over.
Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common bacterial infection that affects the bladder, urethra, or kidneys. It is most commonly seen in women but can also affect men. UTIs can cause discomfort and, if left untreated, may lead to more serious complications.
Available for women aged 16 to 64 years.
Who can use Pharmacy First Service?
A Pharmacy First consultation at Procters Pharmacy may be right for you if:
- You have symptoms of one of the seven covered conditions
- You would like advice without waiting for a GP appointment
- You are within the age range for that condition, which our pharmacist will confirm
- You have been referred to us by your GP surgery or NHS 111
You do not need a referral to use the service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an appointment?
No. We welcome walk-ins for Pharmacy First consultations. You can also call ahead and our team can advise you on the best time to visit.
Is Pharmacy First free?
There is no charge for the NHS Pharmacy First consultation. If prescription medicine is supplied, normal NHS prescription charges may apply unless you are exempt. If an over-the-counter medicine is recommended instead, you may need to purchase this separately.
Is the consultation private?
Yes. Pharmacy First consultations can be carried out confidentially, and we have private consultation facilities available when needed.
Can my GP or NHS 111 refer me?
Yes. We can receive electronic Pharmacy First referrals from GP surgeries and NHS 111. You can also come directly to the pharmacy without a referral.
How long does a Pharmacy First consultation take?
This depends on your symptoms and the assessment required. Our pharmacist will take the time needed to assess whether the Pharmacy First service is suitable and discuss the appropriate treatment or next steps.
Will my GP be informed?
If you are registered with a GP, the outcome of your Pharmacy First consultation will normally be shared securely with your practice so your health record can be kept up to date.
What happens during the consultation?
Our pharmacist will ask about your symptoms, medical history, any medicines you are taking and relevant allergies. Depending on the condition, they may also need to carry out a simple examination before advising you on treatment.
Will I always receive antibiotics?
No. Antibiotics are only supplied when they are clinically appropriate and permitted under the Pharmacy First service for the condition being assessed.
Can Pharmacy First treat Lyme disease, scabies or malaria?
No. These conditions are not covered by Pharmacy First. If your symptoms suggest one of them, our pharmacist can advise you on where to seek appropriate care.
What happens if Pharmacy First is not suitable for me?
If your symptoms fall outside the Pharmacy First service, or our pharmacist thinks you need further assessment, they will explain the appropriate next step. This may include contacting your GP, NHS 111 or another healthcare service.
Feeling unwell?
We welcome walk-ins. Feel free to call ahead and our team will let you know the best time to come in.