Why Pharmacy First?

We’ve all experienced the stress of minor illnesses that disrupt our daily lives. Pharmacy First is here to take the hassle out of managing them. With the NHS Long Term Plan focusing on strengthening out-of-hospital care to ease the pressure on emergency facilities, community pharmacists are stepping up to offer their expertise as perfectly positioned medical experts, offering effective assistance relating to a range of health concerns.

Expanding Roles and Services

Since April 2023, there’s been a push to expand the services offered by community pharmacies. Now, they’re not just for a quick prescription refill; they’re becoming a go-to for managing minor health issues. With the introduction of the Pharmacist First advanced service, your local pharmacy will be equipped to handle seven common conditions through specific clinical pathways:

Sinusitis

If you’re struggling with a blocked or runny nose, facial pain, and a sense of fullness in your face, your pharmacist is now equipped to help. They can advise on the best over-the-counter remedies, and if needed, prescribe medications. This means faster relief and guidance, without the wait for a GP appointment.

Sore Throat

A common yet annoying issue, sore throats can now be effectively managed at your local pharmacy. Your community pharmacy team can assess your symptoms, suggest effective remedies, and provide advice on pain management and when to seek further medical attention. This service will be especially valuable during cold months when sore throats are more common.

Earache

Ear pain can be distressing, especially in young children. Pharmacists can now assess earache symptoms, recommend treatments like pain relief or ear drops, and guide you on when it’s necessary to see a doctor. This service helps in quickly addressing discomfort and preventing complications.

Infected Insect Bites

Insect bites can sometimes lead to infections, with increased redness, swelling and pain. Your pharmacist can assess the bite, recommend topical treatments or oral medications if needed, and provide advice on how to prevent infections in the future.

Impetigo

This highly contagious skin disease requires speedy treatment. Pharmacists can now assess the affected area, advise on the best course of action, and provide prescription treatments when necessary. This service is particularly important in preventing the spread of the infection to others.

Shingles

Known for its painful rash, shingles can be alarming. Your community pharmacist can offer advice on how to manage the symptoms, suggest over-the-counter remedies or prescribe antiviral medication if appropriate. They can also guide you on when to seek further medical care and how to reduce the risk of complications.

UTIs

UTIs can be uncomfortable and distressing. Pharmacists can now offer consultations for UTI symptoms, provide advice on management and prevention, and in certain cases, prescribe antibiotics. This service is vital in offering quick relief and preventing more serious complications.

How Does the Referral Process Work?

Whether you’re directed by NHS 111, your GP, 999 services, or other urgent care providers, or even if you walk in without a referral, the process is streamlined for efficiency. You’ll have a choice of participating pharmacies, and once you select one, a secure electronic referral is sent out. The pharmacy will reach out to you within 30 minutes, ensuring that you get the care you need promptly.

A Step Towards a Healthier Future

Pharmacist First isn’t just a service, it’s a commitment to enhancing healthcare delivery across the UK. By leveraging the expertise of community pharmacists and simplifying the referral process, it promises improved access to care, reduced strain on emergency services, and a more efficient healthcare system.

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Curious about how this will change your healthcare experience? Want to know more about the role of community pharmacy in the future? Check out our other articles, or - better yet, pop into your local pharmacy for a chat with your nearest pharmacy. They’re ready and waiting to be your first port of call for healthcare needs.