The NHS Pharmacy First service

The Pharmacy First service, which launched earlier this year, enables pharmacists to offer NHS consultations, treatment and advice, in private, for seven common conditions without needing a GP appointment. 

The service covers: 

• Earache (for those aged 1 to 17) 
• Impetigo (for those aged 1 year and over) 
• Infected insect bites (for those aged 1 year and over) 
• Shingles (for those aged 18 and over) 
• Sinusitis (for those aged 12 and over) 
• Sore throat (for those aged 5 and over) 
• Uncomplicated urinary tract infections (for women aged 16-64) 

Patients can pop into their local pharmacy, often with no need for an appointment, and will be supplied an NHS appropriate prescription medicine if needed. Should the pharmacy team be unable to help, then you will be directed to another healthcare professional as appropriate. 

Over 98% of pharmacies across Norfolk & Suffolk now offer this NHS service and have provided thousands of convenient consultations since its launch. 

Patients can visit the NHS website to find out more and locate their nearest pharmacy.

Published: Apr 28, 2026