The NHS Pharmacy First service allows community pharmacists to assess and support patients with a number of common health conditions.
For many people, this means being able to get professional healthcare advice locally without needing to arrange a GP appointment first.
What Conditions Can Pharmacy First Cover?
The established Pharmacy First clinical pathways include:
- sinusitis
- sore throat
- earache in children and young people
- infected insect bites
- impetigo
- shingles
- uncomplicated urinary tract infections in eligible women
Each pathway has its own age and eligibility criteria, so the pharmacist will first assess whether the service is appropriate for you.
What Will the Pharmacist Do?
During your consultation, the pharmacist will ask about your symptoms, how long they have been present and any relevant medical conditions or medication.
They will check for signs that may require further medical assessment and determine the most appropriate next step.
Depending on your symptoms, this may involve self-care advice, treatment or referral to another healthcare service.
Changes to Pharmacy First
Community pharmacy services are continuing to develop.
From autumn 2026, some participating prescribing pharmacies are beginning to offer NHS treatment for additional conditions including migraine, acne, seasonal allergic rhinitis, acute otitis externa and certain mild skin conditions.
These additional services are not automatically available at every pharmacy, so patients should check availability with their local pharmacy.
Pharmacy First in Holloway
At Hornsey Road Pharmacy in Holloway, our pharmacy team can assess whether your symptoms may be suitable for support through Pharmacy First and advise you on the most appropriate next step.
It provides a convenient way for eligible patients in Holloway, Islington and surrounding areas to access NHS healthcare closer to home.
