Think Pharmacy First Posted or Updated on 4 Nov 2025

Going to your local pharmacy offers an easy and convenient way to get clinical advice on minor health concerns. 

Most pharmacies in England are now providing the Pharmacy First service. This free NHS service allows you or your child to get quick access to healthcare advice for the following seven conditions:

• Earache (aged 1 to 17 years)
• Impetigo (aged 1 year and over)
• Infected insect bites (aged 1 year and over)
• Shingles (aged 18 years and over)
• Sinusitis (aged 12 years and over)
• Sore throats (aged 5 years and over)
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs) in women (aged 16 to 64 years)

As part of Pharmacy First patients do not need to see their GP or need a prescription from the practice for these conditions.

Community pharmacy teams are highly-skilled, qualified health professionals who have the right clinical training to give people the health advice they need. Patients don't need an appointment and private consultation rooms are available. Pharmacy teams can also signpost to other relevant local services where necessary.

By expanding the services community pharmacies offer through Pharmacy First, the NHS is aiming to free up GP appointments and give people more choice in how and where they access care.

Don't wait for minor health concerns to get worse – think pharmacy first and get seen by your local pharmacy team.

For more information visit www.hertsandwestessex.ics.nhs.uk/pharmacy