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NHS Service — Free

NHS Pharmacy First

Get treated for 7 common conditions at Derby Street Pharmacy without a GP appointment — completely free on the NHS.

Book Consultation Walk-ins also welcome
About This Service

What is NHS Pharmacy First?

Pharmacy First is an NHS England service launched in January 2024 that allows community pharmacists to assess, prescribe, and treat 7 common conditions — saving you a trip to the GP. The service is completely free and available on a walk-in basis at participating pharmacies.

At Derby Street Pharmacy, our GPhC-registered pharmacists are qualified to assess your symptoms, provide clinical advice, and where appropriate, prescribe NHS medication — all without needing a GP referral.

7 Conditions We Can Treat

Our pharmacists can assess, diagnose, and prescribe treatment for these conditions.

Earache

Ages 1–17

Pain or discomfort in one or both ears, including ear infections in children.

Get Treated

Sore Throat

Ages 5+

Painful throat that may indicate a bacterial infection requiring antibiotics.

Get Treated

Sinusitis

Ages 12+

Blocked or runny nose with facial pain or pressure lasting more than 10 days.

Get Treated

Urinary Tract Infection

Women 16–64

Burning sensation when urinating, frequent urination, or cloudy urine.

Get Treated

Shingles

Ages 18+

Painful rash with blisters, usually appearing on one side of the body.

Get Treated

Impetigo

Ages 1+

Highly contagious skin infection causing sores and blisters, common in children.

Get Treated

Infected Insect Bites

Ages 1+

Insect bites that have become red, swollen, painful, or are oozing pus.

Get Treated
Simple Process

How It Works

1

Walk In or Book

Visit us during opening hours or book a convenient time slot online. No GP referral needed.

2

Pharmacist Assessment

Our pharmacist will assess your symptoms in a private consultation room and discuss treatment options.

3

Treatment Provided

If appropriate, the pharmacist will prescribe and supply NHS medication on the spot. No charge.

GPhC Registered
NHS Partner
GDPR Compliant
DSPT Compliant
Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is NHS Pharmacy First?
Pharmacy First is an NHS service that allows community pharmacists to assess, diagnose, and treat 7 common conditions without needing a GP appointment. Treatment is free on the NHS.
Do I need an appointment?
No — you can walk in during our opening hours. However, booking online can help secure a convenient time and reduce your wait.
Is Pharmacy First really free?
Yes. Pharmacy First is a fully NHS-funded service. You will not be charged for the consultation or any medication prescribed as part of the service.
What happens during a Pharmacy First consultation?
You will be seen in a private consultation room. The pharmacist will assess your symptoms, discuss your medical history, and if appropriate, prescribe and supply medication. The whole process typically takes 10–15 minutes.
Can the pharmacist prescribe antibiotics?
Yes. Under the Pharmacy First service, qualified pharmacists can prescribe antibiotics and other prescription-only medicines for the 7 eligible conditions.
What if my condition is not on the list?
Our pharmacists can still offer advice and over-the-counter treatments for many other conditions. If your symptoms require a GP or hospital, we will refer you appropriately.
Do I need to bring anything?
No specific documents are required. However, bringing your NHS number or a form of ID can speed up the process, especially for first-time patients.