Share your experiences of Pharmacy First
Healthwatch Bedford Borough is delivered by Engaging Communities Solutions CIC (ECS). ECS deliver seven local Healthwatch across England.
We are carrying out a project to gather feedback across all seven local Healthwatch areas to understand what people know about Pharmacy First and their experiences of using it after it’s introduction at the beginning of 2024.
We would like to hear from people through our online survey which can be accessed here
The survey is open until 31st August 2024.
What is Pharmacy First?
The Pharmacy First Scheme means that patients across England can now get prescription-only treatment for seven common conditions at their local high street pharmacy, without needing to see a GP.
This can include prescribing and supplying antibiotics and antivirals where clinically appropriate.
What conditions can be treated at my pharmacy?
Your local pharmacy can now supply prescription-only treatment, if they believe you need it, for the following conditions:
- Sinusitis (for patients aged 12 years and over only)
- Sore throat (aged 5+)
- Earache (aged 1 year-17)
- Infected insect bite (aged 1 year+)
- Impetigo (aged 18 years+)
- Shingles (aged 18 years+)
- Uncomplicated urinary tract infections (women aged 16 to 64)
How does it work?
If you are feeling unwell with any of these conditions, you can go to your local participating pharmacy and ask for a private consultation with the pharmacist.
You may also be referred by a GP practice if they don’t have any appointments and believe your pharmacy can help. The 111 helpline service may also refer you. Pharmacists can also offer this service on-the-spot if you go in asking generally for help.
Pharmacists may offer a virtual consultation by phone or video call, or in person in a private room in the pharmacy. They will ask questions, may perform an examination and must get your consent to access your medical records. The pharmacist will be able to recommend the best course of action based on your clinical needs. This might include issuing prescriptions for antibiotics or antivirals where necessary or advising you on over-the-counter treatments that could help.
What are the benefits of the scheme?
There are many benefits to the new scheme, helping to make care easier and more accessible. These benefits include:
- Participating pharmacies must offer the service during all their opening hours including any late nights or weekends.
- It may be quicker to see your pharmacist than waiting for an appointment with your GP.
- Pharmacy First – along with expanded Blood Pressure Check and Oral Contraception services at pharmacies – could free up to 10 million GP appointments a year.
