NHS Pharmacy First
Get expert advice and, where clinically appropriate, NHS treatment for seven common conditions from our pharmacists, without needing a GP appointment.
Pharmacy First lets you see a pharmacist instead of your GP for a range of common conditions. Our pharmacists will listen to your symptoms, carry out a consultation in a private room and, if you need it, supply NHS treatment, including some prescription-only medicines.
You can walk in to any of our community pharmacies, or you may be referred to us by your GP practice, NHS 111 or an urgent care service.
Conditions we can help with
Sinusitis
Age 12+
Read more →Sore throat
Age 5+
Read more →Earache
Age 1–17
Read more →Infected insect bites
Age 1+
Read more →Impetigo
Age 1+
Read more →Shingles
Age 18+
Read more →Urinary tract infections
Women 16–64
Read more →Also part of Pharmacy First
- Advice and over-the-counter treatment for minor illnesses when you are referred by NHS 111 or your GP practice
- An urgent supply of your regular prescription medicines if you run out and are referred by NHS 111
What to expect
Walk in or get referred
Visit us, or be referred by your GP practice or NHS 111.
Private consultation
The pharmacist asks about your symptoms and medical history and may examine you.
Advice and treatment
You get self-care advice and, if appropriate, NHS treatment. If you need to see a GP, we will tell you.
Frequently asked questions
Is Pharmacy First free?
The consultation is free. If you are given a medicine, the standard NHS prescription charge applies unless you are entitled to free prescriptions.
Do I need an appointment?
No, you can usually just walk in. You may wait a short time to see the pharmacist.
What if the pharmacist cannot treat me?
If your symptoms need further assessment, the pharmacist will advise you on where to go, such as your GP practice, NHS 111 or urgent care.
Make Smart Pharm your pharmacy
Expert, friendly care from pharmacists backed by robotic dispensing and medicine scanning.