Which conditions can Pharmacy First help with?
In England, the seven Pharmacy First clinical pathways cover sore throat, sinusitis, earache, infected insect bites, impetigo, shingles and uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women.
Each pathway has eligibility rules, including age limits. Our Pharmacy First service page lists the conditions and age ranges. Being within the age range does not automatically mean a particular treatment is appropriate.
Getting started at Ise Pharmacy
You can contact the pharmacy directly for advice about Pharmacy First. Call 01536 519911 to check availability before travelling, especially if you are coming for a particular service.
We are at 75 St John’s Road, Kettering, NN15 5AZ. Ask for a private conversation if you would prefer to explain your concern away from the counter. Let the team know if you need help with communication or access.
A short checklist before your conversation
It can help to make a note of the following, particularly if you are asking on behalf of a child or someone you care for:
- When the symptoms started and how they have changed.
- What you have already tried, including the names of any medicines.
- Regular medicines, supplements and known allergies.
- Relevant health conditions and whether pregnancy is possible.
- Any recent advice or treatment from another healthcare professional.
You do not need to decide which medicine you want before speaking with the pharmacist. Start by describing the problem in your own words.
Advice, treatment or another service
The pharmacist considers your symptoms and whether the Pharmacy First pathway is suitable. Depending on the assessment, the next step may be self-care advice, an appropriate medicine, or referral to a GP or another healthcare service.
Prescription medicines can be supplied through the service when its criteria are met. Antibiotics are not automatic, and a consultation does not guarantee a prescription. The pharmacist can still advise you if Pharmacy First is not suitable for your situation.
Leave knowing what to do next
Before you leave, ask how to use any recommended treatment, what improvement to expect and who to contact if things do not improve. It is useful to repeat the plan back in your own words, particularly if you are passing instructions on to someone else.
Tell the team if you do not understand a medicine label or have concerns about taking something. For urgent help when the pharmacy is closed, use NHS 111. Call 999 for a life-threatening emergency.
Sources & further reading
Sources checked on .
This article provides general information. Individual advice, service eligibility, availability and costs are confirmed by the pharmacy.