What Is the NHS Pharmacy First Service and How It Can Help You

The NHS Pharmacy First Service is one of the biggest improvements to community healthcare in years. It allows pharmacists to assess, advise and, where appropriate, supply prescription-only medicines for a range of common conditions.

That means you can now visit your local pharmacy for treatment and avoid waiting for a GP appointment. It saves time, reduces pressure on surgeries and helps patients get the care they need more quickly.

At Village Pharmacy in Charlton, our pharmacists are trained and ready to deliver the Pharmacy First Service to the local community, providing expert care that is quick, confidential and convenient.

What is Pharmacy First?

Pharmacy First is an NHS service that allows community pharmacists across England to treat several common health conditions directly. It was designed to make healthcare easier to access, particularly for people who need help with minor illnesses that do not require a doctor.

You can walk into a participating pharmacy and speak with a pharmacist without an appointment. They can provide professional advice, recommend treatment, and in many cases supply the same prescription medicines that a GP would normally issue.

Conditions that can be treated under Pharmacy First

The NHS Pharmacy First Service covers several common conditions including:

Earache
Sore throat
Sinusitis
Infected insect bites
Impetigo
Shingles
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) in women

Your pharmacist will assess your symptoms, check your medical history, and decide if treatment through Pharmacy First is suitable. If necessary, they will refer you to another healthcare professional for further care.

How the service works

Walk in or call your pharmacy. You do not need an appointment to use the service.
Describe your symptoms. The pharmacist will ask questions about your condition and medical history.
Get expert care. You may receive advice, an over-the-counter product, or a prescription-only medicine if appropriate.
Follow up if needed. If your symptoms do not improve or you need further investigation, your pharmacist will advise you on the next steps.

At Village Pharmacy, the service is carried out in a private consultation room, ensuring confidentiality and comfort.

The benefits of using Pharmacy First

Pharmacy First has been introduced to make healthcare simpler for everyone. Some of the main advantages include:

Faster access to treatment. No need to wait for a GP appointment.
Convenient local care. Pharmacies are open long hours and do not require booking.
Expert advice. Pharmacists are highly qualified and trained to identify when you need further help.
Reduced pressure on GPs and the NHS. Freeing up appointments for those who need them most.

It is estimated that the Pharmacy First Service could save the NHS millions of appointments each year while improving patient satisfaction and access to care.

Pharmacy First in Charlton and surrounding areas

If you live in Charlton, Greenwich, Woolwich, or Blackheath, you can access the Pharmacy First Service right here at Village Pharmacy. Our experienced pharmacists are ready to help with minor health problems so you can feel better faster.

You can simply walk in, or call ahead on 020 8858 0907 to check availability. Appointments are not required, and most consultations take less than ten minutes.

When to still see a GP or urgent care provider

Pharmacy First is designed for minor illnesses, not emergencies. If you experience severe pain, persistent high fever, chest pain, shortness of breath or any other serious symptoms, you should contact your GP, NHS 111 or visit A&E.

Your pharmacist will always tell you if your symptoms need further assessment.