The new Pharmacy First service - which helps patients get medical help directly from pharmacies - has already been used more than 40,000 times in Cambridgeshire, Peterborough and Royston.

Pharmacy First helps people access treatment for seven common conditions, minor illness consultations and urgent repeat medicines through their pharmacy without needing a GP prescription.

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So far the most common conditions treated by Pharmacy First across the region are sore throats, uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women, and earache.

Pharmacies can offer consultations and treatment for the following conditions:

  • Sore throat (ages five and over)
  • Earache (ages one to 17)
  • Sinusitis (ages 12 and over)
  • Impetigo (ages one and over)
  • Infected insect bites (ages one and over)
  • Shingles (ages 18 and over)
  • Uncomplicated UTIs (women aged 16 to 64

Sati Ubhi, chief pharmacist at NHS Cambridgeshire & Peterborough, said: "If you’re feeling unwell and think you might have one of these illnesses, please visit your local pharmacy and ask for a consultation with the pharmacist.

"Your expert pharmacy staff will help you and can provide you with medication if you need it. 

"You don’t need an appointment because Pharmacy First offers same day help for these ailments and illnesses, getting you the help you need quickly."