Pharmacy First Service

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Pharmacy First consists of three core elements:

  • urgent medicine supply (referral only)
  • minor illness (referral only)
  • clinical pathways consultations (referral and suitable patients identified by the contractor)

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusions

The list of minor illness symptoms groups identified for referral to a community pharmacist is listed in Annex D of the Community Pharmacy advanced service specification: NHS Pharmacy First Service

In addition to minor illness symptoms, referral may also be an option for patients presenting with symptoms potentially associated with any of the following conditions and fall within the eligible age range:

  • uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) in women aged 16-64 
  • shingles 18 years and above
  • impetigo 1 year and above
  • infected insect bites 1 year and above
  • sinusitis 12 years and above
  • sore throat 5 years and above
  • acute otitis media aged 1-17 years

How to Refer

NHS 111

111

Patients may at present be referred to Pharmacy First by general practice for low acuity minor illness conditions and the seven clinical pathways.

Practices should refer to the patients’ choice of pharmacy, using the EMIS Local Service function. A video guide is available. 

Self-referral

Patients may at present be referred to Pharmacy First by NHS 111 telephony or NHS 111 online. 

In addition, for the clinical pathways consultations only, patients are able to access the service by attending or contacting the pharmacy without the need for referral.

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Review date: Friday, 31 January 2025