Everyone can go to their pharmacist for free advice or to buy a medication for a minor ailment.
Your pharmacist can also help you decide whether you need to see a doctor or if self treatment is enough. They may suggest a treatment that you can purchase from the pharmacy or receive for free through the ‘Pharmacy First‘ scheme if you qualify*. Most pharmacies are open throughout the day and there are some that are also open until midnight and at weekends.
If you qualify for free prescriptions you could receive free treatment from your local participating community pharmacist for the following conditions without having to see your GP;
- Athlete’s foot
- Bacterial conjunctivitis
- Constipation
- Dental pain
- Diarrhoea
- Earache
- Haemorrhoids
- Hay fever
- Head lice
- Insect bites/stings
- Sore throat
- Teething
- Temperature/fever
- Threadworms
- Thrush
*Qualification for free medication through ‘Pharmacy First’ is subject to pharmacy participation and if the patient qualifies for free NHS prescriptions. You can check eligibility for free NHS prescriptions here; prescription costs and eligibility.