A complete guide to the clinical services offered by NHS community pharmacies across England.
Under the NHS Pharmacy First Scheme, community pharmacists in England can assess and supply prescription-only medicines for seven common conditions: sinusitis, sore throat, earache (acute otitis media), infected insect bites, impetigo, shingles, and uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women aged 16 to 64. No GP appointment is needed.
Many pharmacies offer free NHS flu vaccinations to eligible patients each autumn, as well as COVID-19 boosters when clinically indicated. Travel vaccines and private flu jabs may also be available for a fee.
Free NHS blood pressure checks are available to adults over 40 at participating pharmacies as part of the cardiovascular disease prevention service. No appointment is needed at most locations.
Community pharmacies can provide NHS-funded smoking cessation services including behavioural support and nicotine replacement therapy under the Smoking Cessation Advanced Service.
Some pharmacies offer private weight management consultations and can supply licensed treatments where clinically appropriate. NHS Tier 2 weight management programmes are also delivered through some pharmacies.
Many UK pharmacies offer free NHS emergency hormonal contraception (the morning-after pill) without needing a GP appointment, usually following a brief consultation with the pharmacist.
If you have been newly prescribed a medicine for one of several long-term conditions, your community pharmacist can provide a free NHS New Medicines Service consultation to help you get the most from your treatment.