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)

For an interactive map showing the nearest pharmacy that provides this service, or a list of community pharmacies that provide this service, see the Community pharmacy services page.

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