Pharmacy First

Think Pharmacy First 

Did you know that you can go to your local community pharmacy for a vast range of healthcare needs? You can get help and advice for lots of different things, and now, pharmacists can even give medication where needed for seven common conditions. All this, without needing to wait for a GP appointment. And because there are over 230 community pharmacies across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent, you’re probably always near to one. Not only this, but community pharmacies have longer opening hours, including weekends, making it quick and easy to visit for help and advice, and you can go at a time that suits you. 

If you have any of the below problems, you can speak to a pharmacist for advice. The pharmacist will assess you and they will also be able to give you medication if you need it. The seven common conditions that pharmacists can prescribe for are: 

• Urinary tract infections (sometimes called UTIs or ‘water infections’) 

• Shingles 

• Impetigo (a skin infection that starts with red sores or blisters)  

• Infected insect bites and stings 

• Sore throat 

• Painful sinuses (sinusitis) 

• Some ear infections (acute otitis media) 

Find out more about each of the conditions below:

Ear infections

Impetigo

Insect bites

Shingles

Sinusitis

Sore throat

UTI

You do not need to worry about being overheard, as most community pharmacies have consultation rooms where you can go and speak to someone in private. Just pop into your local community pharmacy and ask for a consultation with the pharmacist. 

*Treatment is subject to a suitability assessment. Normal NHS prescription charge rules apply 

You can find your nearest pharmacy on the NHS Find a Pharmacy webpage.

For more pharmacy information visit our community pharmacy page.

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