There is something all of us can do to help our under-pressure NHS
– and that is to think PHARMACY FIRST.
PHARMACY FIRST describes services for common clinical conditions where your community pharmacist should be your first port of call – without the need for an appointment.
Minor Ailments Service
All pharmacies can currently offer a wide range of treatments through the national Minor Ailments Service – allowing pharmacists to treat ailments over-the-counter without the need for a GP consultation.
However, its use is limited the range of illnesses that can be treated.
Pharmacy First Service
Pharmacy First extends treatment to two common conditions that would have previously required a trip to the GP surgery. This service is available through all pharmacies.
Urinary Tract Infection
Your community pharmacist can treat uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTI) in females aged 16-65.
If you have symptoms (burning or stinging sensation on passing urine; need to pass urine frequently or urgently) that may indicate a urinary infection, think Pharmacy First as the pharmacist can discuss your symptoms and advise if treatment with antibiotics is suitable, or make a referral onward if required.
You will have to see your GP if you are pregnant; diabetic; had recent treatment for a UTI; if you have fever/intense shivering; lower back pain; blood in urine; or vaginal discharge/irritation.
Impetigo
Impetigo is a common infection that mainly affects children but can appear in adults too.
It presents as a crusty rash usually around the mouth and nose. It’s highly contagious and can cause problems with access to school or nursery. Anyone with these symptoms can present in the pharmacy, where the pharmacist can assess, and prescribe antibiotic cream should it be required.
Prescribing Pharmacists
A number of our pharmacists are independent prescribers, providing a walk-in clinic for an extended range of common clinical conditions.
These pharmacists use their extended clinical skills to assess and diagnose common conditions of the skin, ear, nose, throat and chest. They can, where appropriate, prescribe from a wider range of medicines that are only available with a prescription.