The Pharmacy First Service launched on 31st January 2024. This scheme replaced the Community Pharmacy Consultation Service (CPSCS). The new Pharmacy First Service provides advice and treatment for a wider array of ailments and can safely be completed by the community pharmacy.
We may refer you to community pharmacy where appropriate. You will be contacted by the right clinical staff who will be able to attend to your concerns more quickly and efficiently than a possibly unnecessary appointment at the practice.
The PFS will include 7 new clinical pathways and can be found on the NHS England website. The service also incorporates the elements of the Community Pharmacist Consultation Service, i.e. minor illness consultations. These will enable pharmacists to:
offer advice to patients
supply NHS medicines where clinically appropriate (including some prescription-only medicines under Patient Group Directions), to treat the following common health conditions:
- sinusitis
- sore throat
- earache
- infected insect bites
- impetigo
- shingles
Further information about the service can be found here Pharmacy First – South East London CCG (selondonccg.nhs.uk)
Prescriptions for over-the-counter medicines
You can buy over-the-counter medicines in pharmacies, supermarkets and some high street shops.
GPs, nurses and pharmacists will not usually give you a prescription for over-the-counter medicines.
Your local pharmacy offers help and clinical advice to manage minor health concerns. If your symptoms suggest it’s more serious, they will help you get the care you need.
Please help the NHS to use resources sensibly.
This advice is in line with national guidance from NHS England.
Further information: