It’s a tale as old as time in the UK: you’re unwell, your GP surgery is fully booked, and you’re left wondering what to do. But here’s the good news — you might not need to see a doctor at all.
Thanks to the Pharmacy First programme, specialist healthcare advice and treatment are now available at your local pharmacy — without the wait, the GP referral, or the stress.
If you’re in England, Pharmacy First is transforming the way people access healthcare. It could be the most convenient way to treat everyday health issues.
What Is Pharmacy First?
Pharmacy First is an NHS-supported initiative launched in 2024 to ease pressure on GP services and improve healthcare accessibility. It allows trained community pharmacists to:
- Assess symptoms
- Provide clinical advice
- Offer treatment or medication
- Refer to a GP or specialist when needed
You won’t need to queue on the phone or wait weeks for an appointment. Just visit a participating pharmacy and get the help you need — swiftly and safely.
What Can Pharmacy First Treat?
Pharmacists are now able to treat a wide range of pharmacy first services, common conditions that previously required a GP visit. You can pop in for help with:
- Earache (ages 2 to 17)
- Sore throat
- Sinusitis
- Impetigo
- Infected insect bites
- Shingles
- Uncomplicated UTIs in women (ages 16–64)
Rather than waiting in a surgery, you could leave your pharmacy with the right treatment in under 20 minutes. This includes access to prescription medicines and antibiotics without having to wait for a doctor’s consultation and prescription.
Why Choose Pharmacy First?
Still unsure if it’s right for you? Here’s why more and more people across the UK are choosing Pharmacy First:
No GP appointment needed
Walk-in or same-day bookings
Support from trained pharmacists
Free consultation and treatment (if eligible)
Reduced waiting times
Suitable for most individuals
It’s quick, effective, and puts your health back in your hands.
When Should You Still See a GP?
Pharmacists are highly trained professionals — but there are limits.
You should contact your GP if:
- Your symptoms are severe or worsening
- You have a complex or long-term condition
- You’re pregnant or immunocompromised (depending on the issue)
- You’ve tried treatment, and it hasn’t worked
Pharmacists will advise you and refer you appropriately if needed.
What Happens at a Pharmacy First Appointment?
- Visit or book in at a participating pharmacy.
- Discuss your symptoms privately.
- The pharmacist will assess the issue and check your health history.
- You’ll receive professional advice and, if suitable, treatment.
- If a GP is required, you’ll be referred directly.
You’ll receive the same standard of care — with much less hassle.
Is It Free?
Yes — Pharmacy First services are free through the NHS for those who are eligible. If you qualify for free NHS prescriptions, treatment is included too.
If not, private options are available and priced affordably — often quicker and cheaper than urgent care.
Who Offers Pharmacy First Services?
Thousands of pharmacies across England provide Pharmacy First — from large chains to independent chemists.
Hollowood Chemists also offer:
- Pharmacy First consultations
- Weight loss support
- Period delay treatments
- Travel vaccinations
- Blood pressure checks
- And much more
They provide confidential, professional care — walk-in or by appointment.
Parents — Take Note
One of the biggest wins of Pharmacy First is for families.
For minor illnesses in children, there’s no need to ring the GP for every earache or sore throat. Your pharmacist can:
- Rule out serious illness
- Offer safe, child-friendly treatment
- Reassure you quickly
Perfect for busy parents who need peace of mind.
Combine Pharmacy First With Other Services
While you’re in, you can also:
- Get vaccinated (flu, COVID, travel)
- Request contraception
- Discuss weight loss treatment or stop smoking
- Pick up private prescriptions
Pharmacy First is quickly becoming the go-to hub for everyday health needs.
Final Thoughts: Everyday Care, Done Better
In a healthcare system under pressure, Pharmacy First is a breath of fresh air. It brings fast, tailored care closer to home — and puts patients first.
Whether it’s a sore throat or a skin flare-up, visit your local pharmacist and skip the stress.
No queues. No long waits. Just the care you need — when you need it.