Have your say: Pharmacy First

Share your views on the new Pharmacy First scheme!

Pharmacy First

The government and NHS England launched the Pharmacy First scheme on 31 January 2024. It is now being rolled out across England, though some pharmacies may need some time to launch the new service. Under the scheme, you can now get prescription-only medicines from community pharmacies to treat seven common health conditions, without having to visit a GP. 

The seven common conditions are:
•    Sinusitis (patients aged 12+ only)
•    Sore throat (aged 5+)
•    Earache (aged 1-17)
•    Infected insect bite (aged 1+)
•    Impetigo (aged 18+)
•    Shingles (aged 18+)
•    Uncomplicated urinary tract infections (women aged 16-64)

How it works

You can get treatment for these seven conditions by visiting or phoning your local pharmacy. At the pharmacy, you can request a private consultation in a separate room or book a virtual appointment. The pharmacist can provide medical advice or prescribe medications according to your needs, and can access your medical records with your consent. They may also refer you to a GP practice if they don’t have appointments available or believe you need additional medical attention.

The appointment and advice from a pharmacist are free, though you will have to pay the regular prescription charges for any medications, unless you qualify for free prescriptions. 

Other services

From December 2023, people have been able to get their contraceptive pills from some local pharmacies. Pharmacies can start you on oral contraception for the first time or re-start you after a break, without needing to see a GP first. Oral contraception is free on the NHS, so you will not have to pay for your prescription. 

Pharmacies will also be expanding their blood pressure check services, focusing on people who are at-risk. The NHS estimates that this could prevent over 1,350 heart attacks and strokes. 

Seeing a GP

This scheme was introduced to give patients quick, convenient and accessible care. It aims to reduce NHS waiting times and give patients with more complex health needs more time and space with GPs.

However, you can still choose to visit your GP if you prefer, or if you feel that you need more support than what your local pharmacy can offer you. Pharmacy First just offers another option to get treatment for the conditions listed above.

We want to hear from you!

Fill out our survey through the link below or email us at info@healthwatchrbkc.org.uk