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Free on the NHS

NHS Pharmacy First at Clarke Pharmacy

See our pharmacist instead of your GP for seven common conditions. We can assess you and, where needed, supply prescription medicine on the NHS.

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Free NHS service · 7 conditions

  • Sinusitis and sore throat
  • Earache (ages 1 to 17)
  • Infected insect bites and impetigo
  • Shingles
  • Uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women
A pharmacist assessing a patient in the consultation room

NHS Pharmacy First

7 common conditions treated on the NHS, with no GP appointment.

Your appointment

How Pharmacy First works

Pharmacy First lets you get treatment for seven common conditions from a pharmacist, without waiting for a GP appointment.

How it works

  • Tell us your symptoms

    Book online, walk in, or be referred by your GP practice or NHS 111.

  • Private assessment

    Our pharmacist talks with you and checks your symptoms in the consultation room.

  • Treatment if needed

    Where it is right for you, we supply medicine, including some prescription-only medicines.

  • Referred if needed

    If you need to see a GP or another service, we tell you and arrange the next step.

Before and after

  • Before your appointment

    • Note when your symptoms started
    • Bring a list of your medicines
    • Tell us about any allergies

  • Afterwards

    • Take any medicine as directed
    • Contact us if symptoms do not improve
    • Seek urgent help if you get worse

Important safety informationPharmacy First is not for emergencies. If you have severe symptoms, chest pain or difficulty breathing, call 999. For urgent advice, contact NHS 111.

NHS Pharmacy First FAQs

Answers to the questions we hear most at the counter.

Skip the wait for a GP appointment

Book a Pharmacy First consultation or pop in to see our pharmacist.

Book Pharmacy First Or contact the pharmacy
Which conditions does Pharmacy First cover?

Sinusitis, sore throat, earache (ages 1 to 17), infected insect bites, impetigo, shingles and uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women aged 16 to 64.

Is it really free?

Yes. Pharmacy First is an NHS service. Normal NHS prescription charges apply to any medicine unless you are exempt.

Do I need an appointment?

You can book online, walk in, or be referred by your GP practice or NHS 111.

What if the pharmacist cannot treat me?

We explain why and refer you to your GP or the right service.

Can children use the service?

Yes, for some conditions, such as earache in children aged 1 to 17. Age limits apply to each condition.