Pharmacy First

Community pharmacies can now treat seven common conditions without needing a GP appointment.

This is part of a major change in how the NHS provides care. Pharmacists at most pharmacies can now assess, treat, and provide some prescription medicines for:

• Earache (for ages 1-17)
• Impetigo
• Infected insect bites
• Shingles
• Sinusitis
• Sore throat
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs) for women aged 16-64

No appointment is needed. Pharmacists are highly trained and can give you the health advice you need. They can also offer private consultations and direct you to other local services if necessary.

By expanding these services, the NHS aims to free up GP appointments and give you more choices for your care.

Don't wait for minor health concerns to get worse – think pharmacy first. Visit your local pharmacy team for help.

We’re hosting three Pharmacy First events to help our patients learn more about the service and how it can support them. Join us at:

Other local practices are also holding events:

Tuesday 20 January 2026

• 9.30am to 1pm
• St Neots Health Centre

Thursday 29 January 2026

• 9.30am to 11.30am
• Great Staughton Surgery

More information about keeping well

Published: Jan 13, 2026