Five more everyday conditions to be treated at local pharmacies
The change is an expansion of Pharmacy First, the NHS service that already lets pharmacists treat seven conditions: sinusitis, sore throat, earache, infected insect bites, impetigo, shingles, and uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women under 65.
The five new conditions are:
- migraine that comes and goes occasionally (adults)
- seasonal hay fever (children)
- outer ear infection (adults)
- mild to moderate acne (young people and adults)
- mild skin and soft tissue infections, and scabies
Unlike the original seven conditions, the new ones will be offered by pharmacies with a qualified prescribing pharmacist. Hundreds of pharmacies will offer them at launch, with more joining over time, so it's worth checking with your local pharmacy before you go.
You can still walk in without booking, or be referred by NHS 111 or your GP practice. According to NHS England, there have been 14 million Pharmacy First consultations since the service launched in February 2024.
At Healthwatch Redbridge, we regularly hear from local people about how hard it can be to get a GP appointment. Services like Pharmacy First can help people get treated quickly and closer to home. If you use Pharmacy First, or try to and can't, we'd like to hear about it.
