At a participating pharmacy in England, eligible patients can ask a pharmacist directly about seven core NHS Pharmacy First conditions. You do not need to arrange a GP referral for these seven pathways. A consultation can lead to advice, NHS treatment when appropriate, or referral for another assessment.
Which conditions and ages are covered?
These are the core pathways and age ranges listed by NHS England. Age alone does not decide eligibility: the pharmacist checks symptoms, their duration, relevant health history and any warning signs.
- Earache (middle ear infection): ages 1 to 17.
- Impetigo: age 1 and over.
- Infected insect bites: age 1 and over.
- Shingles: age 18 and over.
- Sinusitis: age 12 and over.
- Sore throat: age 5 and over.
- Uncomplicated urinary tract infections: women aged 16 to 64, subject to the NHS pathway.
These are the seven core pathways, not a list of every condition a pharmacist can advise on. Additional prescribing pathways being introduced at selected pharmacies do not mean they are available at every location. Ask the pharmacy what it can assess locally.
What happens at a consultation?
The pharmacist will ask when your symptoms started, what you have tried and whether anything is getting worse. Bring a list of medicines and allergies, and mention pregnancy or existing conditions where relevant. An examination may be needed for some symptoms. The pharmacist can recommend self-care, provide NHS treatment if the criteria are met or advise another route. Antibiotics are not an automatic part of the service.
Is the consultation free? What about medicines?
The NHS consultation itself is free for eligible patients. If the pharmacist supplies an NHS medicine, the usual NHS prescription charges and exemptions apply. An over-the-counter product recommended for self-care is a separate purchase. Ask the pharmacist to explain your options before you decide.
When to use a GP, NHS 111 or 999 instead
If your symptoms do not fit a pathway, ask a pharmacist or GP about the right next step. Use NHS 111 for urgent concerns when you are not sure where to go. Call 999 for a life-threatening emergency. If you have already had a consultation, follow the advice you were given about when to seek further help.
Contact Pharmacy First in Shirley, Southampton
Check our NHS Pharmacy First service or call 02381 229024 before travelling to confirm availability. Solent Pharmacy is at 9 St James Road, Shirley, Southampton. Read more about how pharmacies can help on the NHS website.