Pharmacy First
For some problems you do not need a GP. A pharmacist can assess you, give advice, and prescribe medicine if you need it. You do not need an appointment.
What a pharmacist can treat
| Problem | Who | What it covers |
|---|---|---|
| Sore throat | Aged 5 and over | A pharmacist can assess you and give antibiotics if needed. |
| Earache | Aged 1 to 17 | Including suspected ear infections in children. |
| Sinusitis | Aged 12 and over | Facial pain and pressure that has not settled. |
| Impetigo | Aged 1 and over | Sores or crusted patches on the skin. |
| Infected insect bite or sting | Aged 1 and over | Redness, swelling or pus around a bite. |
| Shingles | Aged 18 and over | A painful rash in a band on one side of the body. |
| Urine infection (UTI) | Women aged 16 to 64 | Burning or stinging when you pee, needing to go often. |
How it works
- Go to a pharmacy taking part in Pharmacy First, or ring them first.
- The pharmacist asks about your symptoms and examines you if needed.
- They give advice, and prescribe medicine if it is needed.
- If your problem is not suitable for Pharmacy First, they will tell you where to go.
Most pharmacies in Hindley take part. Find a pharmacy near you.
Important: If it is urgent
Pharmacy First is for these specific problems. If you have chest pain, difficulty breathing, severe bleeding, or signs of a stroke, call 999. If you are not sure, useNHS 111 online.
Other things a pharmacist can help with
You can also ask a pharmacist about coughs and colds, hay fever, head lice, threadworms, athlete's foot, verrucas, conjunctivitis, cold sores, thrush, cystitis, nappy rash, teething, sunburn, sprains, and help to stop smoking.
Find a pharmacy
Opening hours, late nights and bank holiday opening.