Introduction Our NHS-Funded Pharmacy First Service

What is Pharmacy First?

Pharmacy First is an NHS‐funded service designed to provide quick and accessible care for minor but common health conditions. It allows patients to receive advice and treatment directly from a pharmacist without needing to wait for a GP appointment. Our trained pharmacists can carry out consultations. Where appropriate, they can supply NHS-approved medications. This includes certain prescription-only medicines. These are provided under strict NHS guidelines. The service currently covers conditions such as sore throat, sinusitis, infested insect bites, impetigo, shingles, and uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women.

This service promotes quicker access to care and helps reduce pressure on busy GP services by managing suitable cases safely. Supported by structured NHS funding, and overseen through robust clinical governance, Pharmacy First is built to maintain the highest standards of patient care and treatment effectivity.

How the Service Works for You

Accessing Pharmacy First is straightforward and tailored to your needs. You start by visiting our Pharmacy First Service page on the website where you can find detailed information about the six conditions we treat.

You are encouraged to carefully read through the symptoms for each condition to help you self-access whether your symptoms match those covered by the service. If you believe your symptoms align, you are invited to then complete a short online consultation form providing important details about your health and current symptoms.

Based on your responses, you will either be invited to book a confidential video appointment with one of our trained pharmacists or advised to seek care from your GP, NHS 111, or another healthcare provider if your symptoms suggest a more urgent or complex treatment option is needed.

During the video consultation, the pharmacist will assess your condition, explain your treatment options, and if appropriate, supply NHS-approved medication. This medication will be dispensed and sent to you as quickly as possible. A full record of your consultation and treatment will also be shared with your GP to ensure continuity of care.

Who Can Be Treated?

The Pharmacy First service is available to many patients, but certain eligibility criteria apply to ensure patient safety, and effective treatment. For example, only women aged 16-64 can receive treatment for uncomplicated urinary tract infections, and only children over the age of 12 are eligible for sinusitis treatment. Patients who are pregnant, have specific medical conditions, or are taking certain medication may be excluded and will be advised to seek treatment elsewhere. Every consultation takes your individual medical history into account to find the best and safest treatment approach.

Why Choose Pharmacy First at The Family Chemist?

Our pharmacists are fully trained and accredited to deliver this NHS service in line with national guidelines. This means you can expect expert, professional advice and treatment quickly and safely. This service provides you with convenient access to healthcare than can often be faster than waiting for a GP appointment. If also helps reduce pressure on GP surgeries so that they can focus on more complex cases. All consultations are conducted with your privacy and confidentiality in mind. By sharing your treatment records with your GP, we help maintain seamless care. This ensures continuity across the healthcare system.

The Bottom Line

Pharmacy First is about putting your health and convenience first. It offers fast, expert NHS treatment for minor but bothersome conditions. This helps relieve pressure on GPs. It also ensures you get the right care at the right time. At The Family Chemist, our trained team is proud to deliver this service. We uphold the highest standards of safety, training, and clinical governance.