NHS encourages you to get to know your local community Pharmacist and the services they offer, during Ask Your Pharmacist Week
As part of Ask Your Pharmacist Week (4–11 November), the NHS is spotlighting the vital role community pharmacies play in keeping you healthy this winter.
Your local pharmacy offers more than just prescriptions - they provide expert care, advice, and a range of services that can support your overall health and wellbeing.
Highly trained experts in your community
Did you know pharmacists train for five years and must pass a registration assessment before qualifying? During this period, they gain deep knowledge of the human body, medicines, and how to diagnose and treat common illnesses. Even after qualifying, pharmacists undergo continuous professional development to stay updated on the latest medical advances.
Supporting pharmacists is a skilled team that includes, but is not limited to:
- Registered Pharmacy Technicians: Experts who prepare and dispense medicines.
- Accredited Checking Pharmacy Technicians: Specially trained staff who ensure the accuracy of medicines dispensed.
- Dispensing Assistants: Professionals who manage pharmacy stock.
- Medicines Counter Assistants: Trained to support the team and help patients with basic queries.
Every member of the pharmacy team undertakes continuous professional development training to ensure they provide safe, effective services to the public.
Expanded services to meet your needs
Community pharmacies are a vital part of the NHS and their range of clinical services has expanded in recent years. Alongside traditional services like dispensing prescription medications and advice on managing long-term conditions, new services have been introduced to improve access to care. These include:
- Blood pressure checks
- Access to oral contraception - initiation and ongoing supply
- Treatment for seven common conditions, under the Pharmacy First scheme, without the need to see a GP
The Pharmacy First scheme, launched by the NHS and the government in January 2024, allows pharmacists to provide faster, more accessible care for certain conditions. This service is designed to ease pressure on general practice, while giving patients access to effective treatment.
The seven conditions covered by Pharmacy First are:
- Shingles (for adults aged 18 and over)
- Sore throat (for ages 5 and up)
- Infected insect bites (for ages 1 and up)
- Earaches in children (ages 1 to 17)
- Sinusitis (for ages 12 and over)
- Impetigo (for ages 1 and up)
- Uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) in women aged 16 to 64
Please note that while most people within these age groups can be treated at a pharmacy, there are some exceptions, such as for pregnant individuals or those with certain medical conditions.
When you visit your local pharmacy for one of these conditions, you'll receive a private consultation with your pharmacist, who will offer clinical advice and provide treatment, including prescription-only medicines such as antibiotics or antivirals if needed. Pharmacists will also refer you to a doctor or another healthcare professional if your condition requires further investigation.
Trust in Your Pharmacist’s Expertise
Local pharmacist Raj said, “People trust us because we’re at the heart of the community, and our medical expertise is well established. We’re part of the NHS team, working closely with doctors and other health care professionals to provide safe, effective care.
“Pharmacists are trained to spot serious health concerns, known as ‘red flag symptoms,’ and can refer you to appropriate health care providers if needed. Most minor illnesses can be treated by us at your pharmacy, making us a great first point of contact for health advice this winter”
Think "Pharmacy First" for common illnesses
With the pressures on the NHS, it’s more important than ever to seek the right help in the right place. For common illnesses, think ‘Pharmacy First’. Your local pharmacy team can offer quick, expert advice and treatment, helping you avoid unnecessary trips to your GP surgery or other health care settings. This winter, make the most of the services available at your community pharmacy, your first stop for health and wellbeing, find your local pharmacy with NHS Pharmacy Finder