Pharmacy First is an innovative new service launched by the NHS in England. It empowers your local pharmacy to provide advice and, where appropriate, supply prescription medication for seven common conditions without you needing to see a GP. This initiative is designed to make it easier and faster for you to get the help you need, freeing up GP appointments for more complex health issues.
Think of your pharmacy as your local, accessible healthcare hub. With Pharmacy First, our highly trained pharmacists can now do even more to support your health and well-being.
Under the Pharmacy First service, our pharmacists at Riverview HC Pharmacy can assess and treat the following conditions for eligible patients:
Sinusitis (for adults and children aged 12 years and over): Persistent blocked nose, facial pain, and pressure.
Sore Throat (for adults and children aged 5 years and over): Pain or irritation in the throat, often made worse by swallowing.
Earache (for children aged 1 to 17 years): Pain in one or both ears.
Infected Insect Bites (for adults and children aged 1 year and over): Bites that have become red, swollen, and painful, possibly with pus.
Impetigo (for adults and children aged 1 year and over): A contagious skin infection causing sores and blisters.
Shingles (for adults aged 18 years and over): A painful rash with blisters, often on one side of the body.
Uncomplicated Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) (for women aged 16 to 64 years): Symptoms like pain or stinging when peeing, needing to pee more often, and cloudy urine.
It's simple and designed with your convenience in mind:
Walk-in or Call Ahead: If you're experiencing symptoms of one of the seven common conditions, you can simply walk into Riverview HC Pharmacy, or give us a call to check if an appointment is needed.
Confidential Consultation: You'll have a confidential consultation with one of our highly qualified pharmacists in a private consultation room. They will ask you about your symptoms, medical history, and any medications you are currently taking.
Assessment and Advice: Our pharmacist will assess your condition based on your symptoms and their professional expertise.
Treatment or Referral:
If appropriate, they can provide advice and, crucially, supply suitable NHS-funded medication directly from the pharmacy, saving you a trip to the GP.
If your condition is more serious or requires further investigation, our pharmacist will signpost you to your GP or another healthcare provider, ensuring you get the right care.
If your condition doesn’t quite meet the NHS criteria, they can recommend suitable treatment that you can purchase over the counter.
Convenience and Accessibility: No need to wait for a GP appointment. Get professional advice and treatment closer to home and often much faster.
Expert Advice: Our pharmacists are highly trained healthcare professionals with extensive knowledge of medicines and common ailments.
Private and Confidential: All consultations are conducted in a private setting, ensuring your comfort and privacy.
Free NHS Service: For eligible conditions, the consultation and any appropriate NHS-funded medication are free of charge, or subject to a standard prescription payment depending on your circumstances.
Reduces Pressure on GPs: By utilising Pharmacy First, you're helping to free up valuable GP appointments for those with more complex or urgent needs.
Integrated Care: We work closely with your GP and other healthcare providers to ensure a seamless and coordinated approach to your health.
At Riverview HC Pharmacy, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive and accessible healthcare to our community in Sunderland. Pharmacy First is a fantastic addition to our services, allowing us to support you even more effectively with your everyday health needs.
Next time you're feeling unwell with one of the common conditions listed, think Pharmacy First and think Riverview HC Pharmacy.
Drop in or give us a call – we're here to help you get back to feeling your best, faster.
Whether you’re picking up prescriptions, exploring our wide range of over-the-counter products, or seeking guidance on specific conditions, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
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