The Pharmacy First scheme offers treatment for seven common health conditions directly from your local pharmacy. It was launched by the government and NHS England on 31 January 2024 to give patients quick and accessible care, and to ease pressure on GP services. It allows community pharmacists to supply prescription-only medicines, including antibiotics and antivirals, to treat certain conditions without the need for you to visit a GP. These are:

– Sinusitis – age 12+

– Sore throat – age 5+

– Earache – age 1-17

– Infected insect bite – age 1+

– Impetigo (a bacterial skin infection) – age 1+

– Shingles – age 18+

– Uncomplicated urinary tract infections – women, age 16-64

Most local pharmacies offer this service – simply visit a participating pharmacy or contact them virtually. Our Reception team will also direct suitable patients to a local pharmacy. By using this service, instead of booking a GP appointment, you will help to ease the pressure on our services, allowing us to be able to offer better access for more complex health problems.

For more information on the Pharmacy First scheme and to find a local pharmacy, visit the NHS website or visit NHS Birmingham and Solihull.