Pharmacy First

Launched by the NHS on January 31, 2024, the "Pharmacy First" service allows pharmacists to manage seven conditions across various age ranges.

Acute otitis media

1 to 17 years

Impetigo

1 year and over

Infected insect bites

1 year and over

Shingles

18 years and over

Sinusitis

12 years and over

Sore throat

5 years and over

Uncomplicated urinary tract infections

Women 16-64 years

Details are available on the NHS website, which explains the rationale behind this initiative as follows:

Every pharmacist trains for 5 years in the use of medicines and managing minor illnesses, so they are well equipped to provide health and wellbeing advice to help people stay well. They are also experienced in spotting warning signs, otherwise known as red flag symptoms, which may warrant a referral to another healthcare provider.