Many common illnesses and conditions can be treated by your local community pharmacist without the need to see a GP. Pharmacists are highly trained healthcare professionals who can provide advice, treatment and, where appropriate, medicines for a range of conditions.
The Pharmacy First service helps patients access care quickly and conveniently, often without needing an appointment.
What is Pharmacy First?
Pharmacy First allows patients to receive assessment, advice and treatment from participating community pharmacies throughout Northern Ireland.
Pharmacists can help with a number of common conditions and will advise if you need to see a GP, another healthcare professional or attend urgent care services.
Most consultations take place in a private consultation room and are confidential.
Conditions Treated Through Pharmacy First
Sore Throat Service
Patients aged 5 years and over can receive advice and assessment for sore throat symptoms. Your pharmacist may recommend treatment or refer you for further medical assessment if required.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
Do you have any of the following urinary symptoms?
- Passing more urine at night?
- Cloudy urine?
- Burning pain when passing urine?
Women aged 16 to 64 years with symptoms of an uncomplicated urinary tract infection may be assessed and treated by participating pharmacies.
Shingles
Adults aged 18 years and over with symptoms suggestive of shingles may be assessed and treated by participating pharmacies.
Emergency Hormonal Contraception
Many community pharmacies provide free emergency hormonal contraception and confidential advice regarding sexual health and contraception.
- FREE confidential and discreet service
- FREE supply of the morning after pill
- Available up to 120 hours after unprotected sex
Common Everyday Conditions
Pharmacists can also advise and provide treatment for conditions including:
- Acne
- Athlete’s foot
- Earwax
- Diarrhoea
- Groin infections
- Haemorrhoids (piles)
- Head lice
- Mouth ulcers
- Oral thrush
- Scabies
- Threadworms
- Vaginal thrush
- Verrucae
Why Choose Pharmacy First?
- No GP appointment required for many common conditions.
- Quick access to advice and treatment.
- Convenient local service.
- Evening and weekend availability at many pharmacies.
- Private and confidential consultations.
- Pharmacists can refer you to your GP if necessary.
When Should I Contact the GP Instead?
Please contact the practice if:
- Your symptoms are severe or worsening.
- Symptoms persist despite treatment.
- You have significant underlying medical conditions.
- You are concerned about a child under the recommended age range.
- The pharmacist advises you to seek further medical advice.
How Do I Access the Service?
Simply visit a participating community pharmacy and ask about the Pharmacy First service. In many cases, no appointment is necessary.
Our reception team may also direct you to your local pharmacist when this is the most appropriate service for your condition.
Your Local Pharmacist Can Help
Community pharmacists are an important part of your healthcare team. Using Pharmacy First helps patients receive prompt treatment while ensuring GP appointments remain available for those with more complex medical needs.