Pharmacy First: Seven conditions pharmacists can treat without a GP

NHS England's Pharmacy First lets community pharmacists treat seven common conditions without a GP; the programme includes private consultations and may involve prescriptions, with some treatments varying by age.

Pharmacy First allows community pharmacies to treat seven common conditions without a GP consultation. The NHS has highlighted the scheme and encouraged people to think about using local pharmacies for these routine ailments. Introduced in 2024, the programme aims to ease demand on GP surgeries and provide more convenient access to care. The Department of Health and Social Care has said services can be accessed in person or virtually. Key points: - Pharmacy First was introduced in 2024 and covers seven routine conditions. - Pharmacists can offer private consultations, may examine patients, and may access medical records when needed. - Pharmacists may issue prescriptions, including antibiotics or antivirals, where clinically appropriate. - Some treatments vary by age; the programme currently covers shingles only for adults aged 18 and over. - Care can be provided by walk-in appointments or virtually, according to the Department of Health and Social Care. - NHS 111, GP receptionists and emergency care providers can direct patients to pharmacies offering the service. Summary: The scheme is intended to reduce pressure on GP services while giving patients faster access for routine issues. Undetermined at this time.