17 January 2024 , 09:10
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Healthcare on the High Street is changing.
In the coming weeks, local pharmacies, including Boots stores across England, will be able to offer patients some new prescription-only treatments when appropriate, for seven common conditions without the need to see a GP.
As part of the NHS Pharmacy First service, the NHS estimates the England-wide initiative will help save 10 million GP appointments by next winter*.
Here, Boots’ superintendent pharmacist Claire Nevinson explains everything you need to know about the service.
What is Pharmacy First?
The NHS service supports people experiencing symptoms of seven common conditions, offering healthcare advice and appropriate treatment including some prescription-only treatment without the need to see a GP.
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How will I be assessed?
Patients can visit their local Boots pharmacy and have a private consultation with a pharmacist.
They will then be able to provide advice and appropriate treatment, which may be an over-the-counter product or a prescription-only treatment.
Do I need an appointment?
You don’t need an appointment. Boots pharmacy teams are well organised to deal with local needs, and staffed accordingly.
There are over 2,100 UK stores with many of them open after 6pm and at weekends. There should also be a Boots pharmacy close to where you live.
Claire Nevinson, superintendent pharmacist at Boots (Boots)'Patients can visit their local pharmacy and speak to our pharmacists’
Is there a consultation room?
Most Boots stores have a consultation room where you can discuss your condition confidentially and discreetly.
What training do pharmacists have?
Pharmacists are qualified healthcare professionals.
They complete four years at university and a year of training on the job before registering as a qualified pharmacist. They are also required to do continuous professional development and revalidation annually.
Boots pharmacists will receive extensive training ahead of the launch of the NHS Pharmacy First service.
What if my symptoms are more serious?
Boots pharmacists are experienced in supporting people with their health needs, but if symptoms suggest it’s something more serious, they’ll signpost you accordingly.
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Will my GP know what I have been prescribed?
Boots pharmacists can document the outcome on records held by GPs, so they will be able to see what your symptoms were and what was prescribed.
What other health concerns can Boots pharmacists help with?
Boots pharmacy teams can offer advice on minor common health concerns such as aches and pains, coughs, and skin rashes.
They can also help you manage your prescriptions and provide advice on medication.
Find out more about the support on offer at boots.com/pharmacy-first
*NHS England, ‘Pharmacy reforms to bring new services to the high street’, November 16, 2023.
T&Cs: Supply of treatment is subject to a suitability assessment. In most stores in England only. Subject to availability and store opening hours. Charges may apply.