Pharmacy First at Bretts Pharmacy

We provide fast, convenient healthcare advice and treatment for minor ailments without the need for a GP appointment. You can access this service by just walking in to the pharmacy, or you may be referred to us by a GP or 111 service. Pharmacy First Services take pressure off other NHS services, while giving you access to fast, efficient and high-quality care for a range of minor conditions.

Note: if you are looking for a same day appointment, please call 01235 763941 to check our availability.

Book a Consultation


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Benefits of the service:

Free for eligible NHS patients

No need for an appointment – just walk in

Convenient and local

 

 

 

Watch This Video That Explains Pharmacy First

 

 

 

 

What We Can Help With

A list of conditions we can help with our Pharmacy First Services (all these appointments are free)

 

UTIs in women aged 16-64 (This excludes pregnant individuals, urinary catheter, recurrent UTI 2 episodes in last 6 months or 3 episodes in last 12 months).

 

Shingles in adults aged 18 years and over (excludes pregnant individuals).


 

 

 

Impetigo in adults and children 1 year and over (excludes bullous impetigo or recurrent impetigo - 2 or more episode in same year).
 

 

Infected insect bites in adults and children aged 1 year and over.


 

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Sore throat in adults and children aged 5 and over.


 

 

Sinusitis in adults and children aged 12 years and over (excludes immunosuppressed individuals, chronic sinusitis symptoms that have lasted for over 12 weeks).

 

Otitis media in ages 1-17 years (excludes recurrent acute otitis media (3 or more in 6 months or four or more in 12 months).
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How Does the Pharmacy First Service Work?

hands using a tablet to schedule an appointment with travel items in the background managing appointments efficiently

 

Step 1

Visit Bretts Pharmacy, or book an appointment online. 

pharmacist consulting with senior patient in pharmacy displaying helpfulness and care for health needs 6 tips for senior wellness

 

Step 2

Speak with a qualified pharmacist about your symptoms.

pharmacist assisting customer with book in pharmacy discussing health and wellness tips for 7 days​

 

Step 3

Get expert advice and treatment according to your condition.

pharmacy counter with two women one is receiving medication from the pharmacist and the other is looking on a professional pharmacy environment with products displayed in the background for health needs

 

Step 4

If necessary, we can supply certain medicines directly to you.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens during a consultation with the pharmacist?


During a confidential consultation, the pharmacist will:

  • Ask about your medical history, current medications, allergies, and symptoms.
  • Perform necessary examinations (e.g., using an otoscope for ear examinations).
  • Provide advice on managing your condition.
  • If appropriate, supply prescription-only medicines under Patient Group Directions (PGDs) or over-the-counter medicines.

Your pharmacist will also record the consultation details and share them with your GP to update your medical records.

Do I need an appointment to use the Pharmacy First service?


No appointment is necessary, though can book one here. Be sure to come during opening hours though.

Will I have to pay for the consultation or medication?


The consultation and advice from the pharmacist are free. If the pharmacist prescribes a prescription-only medicine, standard NHS prescription charges apply unless you are exempt. For over-the-counter medicines, you will need to pay the retail price.

Can you prescribe antibiotics under this service?


Yes, we can prescribe antibiotics or antivirals when clinically appropriate. We follow NHS protocols and will assess your condition and the risks and benefits before prescribing.

Can I still see my GP if I prefer?


Yes, you can choose to visit your GP if you prefer. The Pharmacy First service offers an alternative route for treating specific conditions, aiming to provide more convenient access to care.

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