NHS Pharmacy First: Get Expert Care Without Seeing Your GP

In an exciting shift towards more accessible healthcare, the NHS Pharmacy First scheme has launched to give patients direct access to essential clinical care, right from their local pharmacy. This initiative allows trained pharmacists, like those at DMB Chemist and Tower Pharmacy, to assess and treat a range of common conditions without the need for a GP appointment. The goal? To make healthcare faster, easier, and more efficient for everyone.

At DMB Chemist and Tower Pharmacy, we’re proud to be part of the Pharmacy First scheme, offering walk-in or same-day treatment for seven common conditions, backed by expert advice and NHS-approved protocols. Whether you’re dealing with a sore throat or a UTI, you can now come straight to us for help.

What Is the NHS Pharmacy First Scheme?

Pharmacy First is an NHS England initiative that empowers community pharmacies to do more for their local populations. The idea is simple: instead of waiting days (or even weeks) for a GP appointment, you can visit your pharmacist for fast, professional help with select health conditions.

This scheme makes use of the clinical training and independent prescribing qualifications of many pharmacists, giving you faster access to treatment while reducing pressure on GP surgeries and the wider NHS.

What Conditions Can Be Treated Through Pharmacy First?

Under the scheme, our pharmacists can now offer consultations, assessments, and NHS-funded treatments for the following conditions:

• Earache

  If your child is suffering from ear pain, we can assess the symptoms and provide treatment without the need to see a doctor. This includes antibiotics if clinically necessary.

  For more information or to book an appointment, head to our Earache page.

• Sore Throat

  Is your sore throat due to a virus or a bacterial infection like strep throat? We can check symptoms, recommend treatments, and prescribe if needed- all in one visit.

  For more information or to book an appointment, head to our Sore Throat page.

• Sinusitis

  Chronic congestion, facial pain, and headaches? We can help manage sinus infections, offering both advice and NHS-prescribed medication where appropriate.

  For more information or to book an appointment, head to our Sinusitis page.

• Infected Insect Bites

  If a bite becomes red, swollen, or painful, don’t wait it out. We can assess the infection and prescribe creams or antibiotics to prevent it from getting worse.

  For more information or to book an appointment, head to our Infected Insect Bites page.

• Impetigo

  This common, contagious skin infection can be treated quickly and effectively. Walk in and we’ll provide the appropriate antibacterial treatments.

  For more information or to book an appointment, head to our Impetigo page.

• Shingles

  Shingles can be extremely painful and must be treated early to avoid complications. Our pharmacists can diagnose and prescribe antiviral medications on the spot.

  For more information or to book an appointment, head to our Shingles page.

• Uncomplicated Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) in Women

  Experiencing symptoms like burning, urgency, or discomfort? Skip the GP queue. We can test, diagnose, and prescribe for UTIs- no appointment necessary.

  For more information or to book an appointment, head to our UTIs page.

Why Choose Us for Pharmacy First?

At DMB Chemist and Tower Pharmacy, we’ve always focused on being at the heart of our community’s health. With an Independent Prescribing Pharmacist on-site, we offer advanced care in a friendly, accessible setting. That means:

• No long wait times

• No need to see your GP for minor conditions

• Professional care and advice you can trust

Plus, we’re open extended hours and offer a warm, walk-in welcome—because your health can’t always wait.

Healthcare Made Simple

The NHS Pharmacy First scheme is a game-changer in how we access everyday healthcare. By expanding what your pharmacy can do, it puts expert help right at your fingertips- no delays, no fuss. Whether you need treatment for a sore throat, help managing hay fever, or guidance on skin infections, DMB Chemist and Tower Pharmacy are here for you.

Visit us today and experience the future of pharmacy care firsthand.
Call to find out more or book your consultation now!