When you’re unwell, your instinct might be to book a GP appointment immediately, but that isn’t always necessary. The NHS is encouraging people to turn to their local pharmacies as a quick and convenient alternative for many common health concerns.
Pharmacists can now provide treatment and certain prescription medications for seven specific conditions without the need for a GP visit. This service, known as Pharmacy First, aims to streamline healthcare access, ensuring patients get faster relief while easing pressure on GP practices.
The conditions covered by this service span all age groups, from infants to the elderly. Additionally, pharmacists can supply the contraceptive pill without a prescription for those aged 18 and over. Some pharmacies even offer it for free.
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The NHS recently posted on X: “Your pharmacist can provide treatment or some prescription medicine, if needed, for seven common conditions – without you seeing a GP. Think pharmacy first and get seen by your local community pharmacy team. #AskYourPharmacist.”
If a pharmacy cannot resolve your health issue, the pharmacist will refer you to a GP or another healthcare professional. Even if you don’t fall within the specified age groups for certain treatments, pharmacists can still provide expert advice and recommend appropriate over-the-counter remedies.
By choosing to visit a pharmacy first, you can receive timely assessment, advice, and treatment, or be directed to further medical care if required. This approach helps save valuable GP time and offers patients quicker access to effective healthcare.