Pharmacy First

05 / Feb

Pharmacy First: Your First Stop for Minor Illnesses

Why You Should Visit Your Pharmacy Before Your GP

The NHS has introduced the Pharmacy First service to provide patients with prompt access to treatment for minor illnesses directly through community pharmacies, such as Chippenham Pharmacy and Health Clinic.his initiative aims to alleviate the burden on GP practices and emergency departments by utilising the expertise of pharmacists.

Understanding Pharmacy First

Launched on January 31, 2024, the Pharmacy First service builds upon the existing NHS Community Pharmacist Consultation Service, which has been operational since October 2019. It enables patients to consult with trained pharmacists for minor illnesses or urgent repeat medication supplies. The service encompasses seven common conditions, allowing community pharmacies to manage these cases following defined clinical pathways.

Conditions Treated Under Pharmacy First

At Chippenham Pharmacy and Health Clinic, we offer consultations and treatments for the following conditions:

Acute Sore Throat: assessment and advice for sore throats in adults and children aged 5 years and older.
Acute Otitis Media (Earache): support for children aged 1 to 17 years experiencing ear pain.
Acute Sinusitis: guidance for adults and children aged 12 years and older suffering from sinus inflammation.
Shingles: valuation and potential treatment for adults aged 18 years and older with early signs of shingles.
Uncomplicated Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): prompt assistance for women aged 16 to 64 years experiencing UTI symptoms.
Impetigo: are for adults and children aged 1 year and older with this contagious skin infection.
Infected Insect Bites: treatment for adults and children aged 1 year and older with infected bites.

For a comprehensive list of conditions and eligibility criteria, please refer to the NHS England guidelines.

Benefits of Choosing Pharmacy First

Immediate Access: No need for an appointment; walk-ins are welcome.
Professional Care: receive expert advice and treatment from qualified pharmacists.
Reduced Waiting Times: by consulting your pharmacy first, you help decrease demand on GP and A&E services, ensuring timely care for more serious conditions.

How to Utilise Pharmacy First

Visit Us: Drop by Chippenham Pharmacy and Health Clinic during our operating hours.
Consultation: Our pharmacist will assess your symptoms and provide appropriate advice or treatment.
Treatment or Referral: Depending on the assessment, you may receive medication or be referred to a GP if necessary.

Supporting the NHS Through Pharmacy First

Engaging with the Pharmacy First service not only offers you swift and effective care but also contributes to the efficient use of NHS resources. By addressing minor ailments at your local pharmacy, GP appointments and emergency services remain available for patients with more critical health issues.

Learn More

For additional information on the Pharmacy First service, visit the NHS England website.

Embrace the convenience and expertise of your local pharmacy. For minor health concerns, think Pharmacy First.

Chippenham Pharmacy and Health Clinic