Pharmacy First

At J & J Pharmacy LTD, we're proud to be your first point of contact for all your healthcare needs. We offer expert advice, treatment, and care for a wide range of minor ailments. Our goal is to make your healthcare journey easier and more convenient by providing you with immediate access to professional support right in your community.


The Pharmacy First scheme will enable community pharmacists to supply prescription-only medicines where clinically appropriate, to treat seven common health conditions without the need to visit a GP.


To access Pharmacy First, simply request a referral through NHS 111 (online or telephone), IUC CAS or your GP.

Children Earache
Earache is pain in the ear, often caused by infections, fluid buildup or inflammation. It can cause temporary hearing loss, discomfort and loss of balance. Ages 1-17years
Sinusitis
Sinusitis is swelling of the sinuses, usually caused by an infection. It can result in facial pain and nasal congestion. Ages 12 and over.
Infected Insect Bites
Insect bites or stings can cause pain, redness, swelling and itching. These bites can go on to cause illnesses. Ages 1 year and over
Shingles
Shingles is an infection that causes a painful rash. It is caused by the chickenpox virus. Ages 18 and over
Impetigo
Impetigo is a highly contagious bacterial skin infection that typically affects young children. It is usually presented as red sores or blisters which can open, ooze and form a yellow crust. Commonly appears on the face, around the nose and mouth. Ages 1 and over
Sore Throat
Sore throats are an irritation or inflammation of the throat and can cause pain especially when swallowing, scratchy throat, a mild cough and other symptons. Ages 5 and over
UTIs in Women
A UTI is a common infection caused by bacteria entering the urinary system. Often causing symptons such as a burning sensation when peeing, needing to pee more frequently and more. Women aged 16-64 years

Frequently Asked Questions

What will happen when I arrive at the pharmacy?

The pharmacist will be able to speak to you privately in a separate consultation room. They may perform an examination or ask to access your medical records. The pharmacist will be able to recommend the best course of action on an individual patient basis, including by issuing prescriptions for antibiotics or antivirals where necessary.

How do I access Pharmacy First?

To access Pharmacy First, simply request a referral through NHS 111 (online or telephone), IUC CAS or your GP.

What are the ages that can be treated for each condition?

Impetigo (aged 1 year and over)
Infected insect bites (aged 1 year and over)
Earache (aged 1 to 17 years)
Sore throat (aged 5 years and over)
Sinusitis (aged 12 years and over)
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) (women aged 16 to 64 years)
Shingles (aged 18 years and over)

Will children under 18 years be able to use the Pharmacy First Service?

Yes, children under 18 years will be able to use the Pharmacy First Service. Pharmacists are experienced in managing young children, and the service ensures that parents with young children can access healthcare advice and necessary treatment promptly. This includes addressing conditions like impetigo and earache, which commonly affect children. However, age restrictions do apply to some conditions for clinical reasons. If a patient, including a child under 18, is not eligible for the service based on their condition, the pharmacist will refer them to another healthcare provider if needed.

Will general practice be notified of Pharmacy First consultations?

Yes, after the patient’s consultation with the pharmacist, the pharmacy will send a notification to the patient’s general practice on the same day or on the following working day. Where possible, this should be sent as a structured message in real-time via the NHS assured Pharmacy First IT system.

Will diagnostic tests be used as part of the Pharmacy First Service?

Pharmacists are experienced in managing common conditions and will diagnose patients through comprehensive history-taking, visual inspection, physical examination and, if necessary, use instruments like otoscopes for diagnosing ear infections. Currently, pharmacists will not utilise diagnostic tests such as urine dipsticks or sore throat swabs as part of the service as there is not enough evidence that they help with decisions about your health.

Why have I not been supplied with antibiotics?

Many mild infections get better on their own without using antibiotics. For some conditions, antibiotics make little difference to how long symptoms last and withholding antibiotics is unlikely to lead to complications. Antibiotics do not work for viral infections such as colds and flu. Antibiotic resistance is a significant concern, and using antibiotics when they are unnecessary may make them ineffective for future use. The pharmacist will be able to advise on whether antimicrobials are appropriate or not.

Do I need to pay for medicines supplied under Pharmacy First?

If the pharmacist recommends an over-the-counter medicine for the patient’s minor illness, this will need to be purchased by the patient. If the patient receives an urgent repeat medicine supply or an NHS medicine as part of a clinical pathways consultation normal prescription charging and exemption rules apply. If the patient does not qualify for free prescriptions, they will need to pay a fee for the medicine. This is the same fee as the current prescription charge.