Pharmacy First (NHS)

Get NHS treatment for common conditions — without needing a GP appointment

Pharmacy First is an NHS service that allows you to receive assessment, advice,
and treatment for certain common conditions directly from a trained pharmacist,
without needing to see your GP.

At Holden’s Chemist Express, our NHS-trained pharmacists provide Pharmacy First consultations
from our local community pharmacies in Doncaster and Newark.

What is Pharmacy First?

Pharmacy First is an NHS initiative designed to make it easier and faster
for patients to access treatment for everyday health problems.

Instead of waiting for a GP appointment, you can speak to a pharmacist who can:

Assess your symptoms
Provide clinical advice
Supply NHS treatment where appropriate
Refer you onward if needed

This service is free on the NHS for eligible patients.

Conditions we can treat under Pharmacy First

Pharmacy First currently covers the following conditions:

Sore throat
Earache / ear infections
Sinusitis
Uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) (women aged 16–64)
Infected insect bites
Impetigo
Shingles (early treatment)

Each condition has clear NHS eligibility criteria, which your pharmacist will assess
during your consultation.

Who can use Pharmacy First?

You may be eligible if:

Your symptoms match one of the covered conditions
You meet the NHS age and eligibility criteria
Your symptoms are suitable for pharmacy-based treatment

If Pharmacy First is not appropriate, we will advise you on the next best step,
including GP or urgent care if needed.

Why use Pharmacy First at Holden’s Chemist Express?

NHS-trained pharmacists
Same-day access in many cases
No GP appointment required
Local community pharmacies
Clear advice and safe referrals when needed

We work closely with local GP surgeries as part of the NHS care pathway.

Find your local Pharmacy First service

Pharmacy First consultations are available at our local NHS pharmacies:

Each location offers private consultation rooms and trained clinical staff,
providing NHS Pharmacy First assessments in line with national guidance.

What happens during a Pharmacy First consultation?

Your pharmacist will ask about your symptoms and medical history
They will confirm whether Pharmacy First is appropriate
NHS treatment or advice will be provided if eligible
You will be referred to another service if required

All consultations follow NHS clinical guidance.

When to seek urgent help

Pharmacy First is for non-emergency conditions only.

If you experience severe pain, breathing difficulties, chest pain, or rapidly worsening
symptoms, please seek urgent medical attention or contact NHS 111.

Next steps

Choose your condition to learn more about symptoms, eligibility, and how Pharmacy First works: